Senate confirms Rob Black as Economic Development Department secretary

Organ Mountain News report

SANTA FE - The New Mexico Senate unanimously confirmed Rob Black as cabinet secretary for the Economic Development Department.

"Sec. Black understands that expanding economic security starts with creating high-quality jobs," Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham said. "Rob is proving that his broad experience and consensus-building skills will grow our economy and expand opportunity in all corners of the state."

Black, a Lovington native, graduated from the University of New Mexico and the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco.

"For many years, I have worked closely with Rob Black to expand early childhood education, improve access to broadband internet and grow high-paying jobs in all corners of the state," Senate Majority Whip Michael Padilla said. "He has been working tirelessly throughout this session on advancing strategic economic development initiatives that will diversify the economy and further improve the lives of New Mexico families. On behalf of the people of New Mexico and the Senate, it was an honor to sponsor this appointment. I congratulate him on his confirmation."

"I am humbled by the support of the Legislature, Gov. Lujan Grisham and the people of New Mexico," Black said. "It is an honor to lead a team of dedicated professionals whose mission is to create pathways to prosperity for all New Mexico families."

Black previously served as president and CEO of the New Mexico Chamber of Commerce, leading the business leadership and advocacy organization with more than 500 members. During his tenure, he launched NMCEO, a foundation that partners with the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions to run Be Pro Be Proud, a statewide career and technical education engagement program, as well as the New Mexico Organized Retail Crime Association.

Before his work at the chamber, Black was senior director of community relations and managed the foundation for Pacific Gas and Electric Company, one of the largest combined electric and gas utilities in the United States.

He also has a background in public policy, having worked as a legislative aide in San Francisco and as an attorney specializing in campaign, lobby and ethics laws. His international experience includes working with The Carter Center in Liberia and directing a USAID grant supporting electoral and legislative processes in South Africa, Zambia and Cambodia. He also ran the Special Projects Department for the Screen Actors Guild, assisting with contract negotiations between the guild and the Motion Picture Association of America.