Bernalillo County, NM Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Bernalillo County, NM has 5 executives leading key functions including administrative operations, information technology, human resources, and public health services.

Committed to regional excellence, Bernalillo County, NM delivers essential public services while fostering sustainable growth and community well-being across the Albuquerque metropolitan area through transparent governance and strategic resource management.

Leadership Roles at Bernalillo County, NM

  • Chief Information Officer - Robert Benavidez
  • Deputy Chief Information Officer - Elie Boujaoude
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Bernadette Perez
  • Chief Medical Officer - Rebecca Fastle
  • Deputy Director - Kari Ellis
  • Robert Benavidez - Chief Information Officer

    Robert Benavidez, the Chief Information Officer at Bernalillo County, NM, architects the digital infrastructure supporting all county government functions. Overseeing cybersecurity protocols and data management systems, the Chief Information Officer ensures the integrity of public records and digital services. This leadership role involves modernizing legacy technology to improve citizen access to government resources across the region. By implementing scalable cloud solutions, Robert Benavidez directly impacts the efficiency of local administrative operations. The Chief Information Officer collaborates with the Board to prioritize technology investments that enhance transparency and service delivery. Through strategic oversight of the IT department, the Chief Information Officer mitigates digital risks while fostering innovation. This role demands constant vigilance regarding data privacy and system uptime. Ultimately, the Chief Information Officer provides the technological backbone required for modern, responsive governance in the Albuquerque metropolitan area.

    Elie Boujaoude - Deputy Chief Information Officer

    Elie Boujaoude, the Deputy Chief Information Officer at Bernalillo County, NM, executes the tactical deployment of enterprise software and network hardware. Overseeing daily technical operations, the Deputy Chief Information Officer ensures seamless connectivity for all county departments. This leadership role involves managing the technical staff responsible for hardware maintenance and software integration across the region. By optimizing network performance, Elie Boujaoude directly impacts the speed and reliability of public-facing digital portals. The Deputy Chief Information Officer works closely with the Chief Information Officer to translate high-level strategy into actionable technical projects. Through rigorous monitoring of system health, the Deputy Chief Information Officer prevents service disruptions and maintains operational continuity. This position requires technical expertise in infrastructure management and project execution. Ultimately, the Deputy Chief Information Officer supports the broader mission of digital transformation within the county government.

    Bernadette Perez - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Bernadette Perez, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Bernalillo County, NM, directs talent acquisition, employee development, and labor relations for the entire organization. Overseeing workforce planning, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the county maintains a skilled and diverse staff capable of delivering essential public services. This leadership role involves designing compensation structures and performance management systems that align with government objectives. By fostering a positive workplace culture, Bernadette Perez directly impacts employee retention and organizational productivity. The Chief Human Resources Officer collaborates with department heads to address staffing needs and regulatory compliance requirements. Through strategic workforce analysis, the Chief Human Resources Officer identifies training opportunities that enhance service delivery across the Albuquerque metropolitan area. This role requires balancing employee advocacy with institutional policy. Ultimately, the Chief Human Resources Officer builds the human capital necessary for effective and sustainable local government operations.

    Rebecca Fastle - Chief Medical Officer

    Rebecca Fastle, the Chief Medical Officer at Bernalillo County, NM, oversees public health initiatives and clinical standards for county-managed health services. Overseeing medical policy, the Chief Medical Officer ensures that health programs meet the needs of the diverse population within the Albuquerque metropolitan area. This leadership role involves coordinating with regional health agencies to address community wellness and emergency response protocols. By integrating evidence-based practices into public health strategy, Rebecca Fastle directly impacts the quality of care provided to residents. The Chief Medical Officer advises the executive team on health-related risks and resource requirements. Through constant evaluation of health outcomes, the Chief Medical Officer drives improvements in service delivery and preventative care programs. This position requires deep clinical expertise and a commitment to public health advocacy. Ultimately, the Chief Medical Officer secures the health and safety of the community through proactive medical leadership.
    Rebecca Fastle

    Kari Ellis - Deputy Director

    Kari Ellis, the Deputy Director at Bernalillo County, NM, manages complex administrative workflows and cross-departmental initiatives. Overseeing operational efficiency, the Deputy Director ensures alignment between county policy and public service delivery. This leadership role involves coordinating resource allocation across diverse government sectors to support the Albuquerque metropolitan area. By streamlining internal processes, Kari Ellis directly impacts the quality of local government services. The Deputy Director maintains rigorous standards for fiscal responsibility and project management. Through constant collaboration with other executive leaders, the Deputy Director drives organizational improvements that benefit the entire region. This position requires deep knowledge of municipal governance and public sector regulations. Ultimately, the Deputy Director secures the operational foundation necessary for effective community support and long-term administrative stability within the county structure.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Bernalillo County, NM Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Bernalillo County, NM?
    Bernalillo County, NM is led by Robert Benavidez (Chief Information Officer), along with executives such as Elie Boujaoude (Deputy Chief Information Officer) and Bernadette Perez (Chief Human Resources Officer).
    Who is part of Bernalillo County, NM’s executive team?
    The executive team of Bernalillo County, NM includes leaders such as Robert Benavidez (Chief Information Officer), Elie Boujaoude (Deputy Chief Information Officer), Bernadette Perez (Chief Human Resources Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Bernalillo County, NM have?
    Bernalillo County, NM has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Bernalillo County, NM’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Bernalillo County, NM includes roles such as Chief Information Officer, Deputy Chief Information Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief Medical Officer, Deputy Director.