Maxine Velasquez formally assumed her new role as the President and Chief Executive Officer of LDC on April 1st, shortly after the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. “Max” joined LDC in 2019 as the company’s lead attorney and Chief of Government Relations. 

The LDC Board of Directors chose Max to assume the top leadership role and lead LDC to new levels of success. While dealing with the unprecedented challenges brought on by COVID-19, she worked closely with Chairman Steve Szapor and the Board of Directors to restructure and reinvigorate the Executive Staff while building a strategic plan process for the future of LDC. The changes include the elimination of certain positions and also involves realignment of reporting responsibilities that will streamline accountability and the decision-making process. Changes in the organization of Executive Staff are common in business and are designed to recognize changes in market conditions and company priorities over time.

Maxine Velasquez is a member of the Pueblo of Laguna. She possesses 20 years of legal counsel and policy experience representing tribal governments on issues such as land, water rights and policy, tribal gaming businesses, and tribal gaming regulatory authorities throughout New Mexico. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice, a Master’s in Public Administration and a Juris Doctorate, all from the University of New Mexico. She is currently working toward an Executive Certificate in Business Administration at the University of Notre Dame.

In announcing the changes, she said, “I am excited about the opportunity to work with our newly reorganized Executive Staff. This is an incredibly talented group of professionals who bring tremendous knowledge and experience to each of their roles.”