David C. Saavedra, MPA, CEO of NMAR. Courtesy photo
NMAR News:
SANTA FE — The New Mexico Association of REALTORS® (NMAR) has announced the appointment of David C. Saavedra, MPA, as its new Chief Executive Officer, following a comprehensive national search and selection process.
A native of Grants, New Mexico, Saavedra represents a new generation of leadership in real estate — one that combines fresh perspective with proven experience in policy, advocacy, and organizational management. He has served as NMAR’s Interim CEO since July 2025, and previously led the Association’s Advocacy and Government Affairs efforts, where he strengthened NMAR’s legislative presence and expanded member engagement across the state. “David’s energy, strategic insight, and deep understanding of New Mexico’s policy landscape make him the ideal choice to lead NMAR into its next chapter,” said Dan Coleman, 2025 NMAR President. “He brings both the steady hand of experience and the innovative spirit our industry needs to thrive in a changing marketplace.”
Prior to joining NMAR, Saavedra served as a Fiscal and Policy Analyst for the New Mexico Legislative Finance Committee. Earlier in his career, he served as President of the Graduate and Professional Student Association at the University of New Mexico, where he successfully advocated for and secured millions in recurring state funding for student scholarships and research grants.
Saavedra is a double graduate of the University of New Mexico, holding a professional Master of Public Administration from UNM’s School of Public Administration and a Bachelor’s in Public Relations and Communications, both earned with distinction. He was also selected as New Mexico’s inaugural delegate to the Western Governors’ Leadership Institute, representing the state in a regional cohort of emerging leaders from across the West focused on housing, workforce, and economic development.
In his new capacity as CEO, Saavedra will oversee NMAR’s strategic direction, operations, and statewide advocacy initiatives. His priorities include strengthening member services, promoting homeownership, and advancing professionalism within the industry. He is also committed to communicating the importance of working with a real estate broker who is a REALTOR®—a professional who adheres to the REALTOR® Code of Ethics, which is based on professionalism, serving the interests of clients, and protecting the public.
“I’m honored to lead an organization that has such a vital role in shaping opportunity and homeownership across New Mexico,” Saavedra said. “Our members are leaders in their communities, and my goal is to ensure NMAR continues to empower them through advocacy, innovation, and service in every market of the state.”
About NMAR
The New Mexico Association of REALTORS® (NMAR) is the state’s largest professional association representing residential and commercial real estate practitioners. NMAR supports its members through education, advocacy, ethics and professional standards, and member-services designed to advance homeownership, private property rights, and a thriving real estate industry in the Land of Enchantment.