Mayor Keller Announces Promotion and New Hire in Key Departments
April 26, 2023
The City of Albuquerque has filled leadership positions within the Department of Technology and Innovation (DTI) and the Office of Equity and Inclusion (OEI). Mark Leech, who previously served as DTI’s deputy director, has been promoted to Director following Brian Osterloh’s retirement after 19 years of public service with the City of Albuquerque. Feliz Baca will serve as the deputy director for OEI.
“Both the Department of Technology and Innovation and the Office of Equity and Inclusion play crucial roles in making our city more accessible for everyone who lives here,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Making it easy for folks to connect with city government and ensuring that our programs are designed through an equity lens are key to creating a city that works for everyone.”
Mark Leech, Director, Technology and Innovation Department
Mark Leech became the Deputy Director of the Department of Technology and Innovation at the City of Albuquerque in 2019. Before then, he managed the Albuquerque Police Department Technical Services Unit. Between 2008 and 2016, Leech led the City’s efforts in open data, transparency and innovation. As a software developer, he has worked extensively in both public and private sectors.
Leech is leading the department in collaborations with local educational institutions and tech companies in support of Smart Cities initiatives. He supports finding and fostering resources to ensure Albuquerque continues to be a leader in tech and stays competitive in future markets.
Mark moved from England to New Mexico in 2002 and holds an MSc. in Information Systems Engineering from the University of Wolverhampton, England.
"The Department of Innovation and Technology is dedicated to improving the lives of Albuquerque's residents and businesses through the power of technology, said Director Mark Leech. “I am honored to lead such a talented team and excited to continue working towards creating a more connected and accessible city for all."
Mark Leech will continue to support all departments and divisions at City Hall with innovative solutions to keep the City at the forefront of current tech needs. Leech will oversee core city systems, networks, and applications to ensure the operations of City services. DTI employs about 150 people ranging from 311 Community Contact Center Agents to Data Architects to Systems Administrators.
Feliz Baca, Deputy Director, Office of Equity and Inclusion
Feliz Baca is the new Deputy Director for the Office of Equity & Inclusion. This position is critical in fulfilling OEI’s mission of inspiring and equipping city government to make Albuquerque a national role model of racial equity and social justice. Feliz’s previous work experience include working in higher education, non-profit, and local government realms where she has worked to foster a culture that promotes diversity, equity and inclusion principles.
“I look forward to joining the OEI team and helping further their work to support the important initiatives they are advancing to help the Black, Indigenous, and immigrant and refugee communities here in Albuquerque,” said Deputy Director Feliz Baca.
Outside of work, Feliz enjoys baking, being outdoors, and exploring the beautiful trails in Albuquerque’s open spaces with her husband Felipe and two dogs.