The Office of the Director/Secretary establishes policy for the daily operation of the department, serves as the liaison between agricultural producers and state and federal government, and serves on national committees on behalf of agriculture.
Director/Secretary (Jeff Witte)
The Director/Secretary is the chief executive officer of the department and serves on the New Mexico State University (NMSU) Cabinet and the Administrative Council. Since March 1978, the Director of the New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) has also served as the Secretary of Agriculture on the Governor’s Cabinet. The Director/Secretary is the agricultural industry’s official representative to state and federal government.
Deputy Director (Les Owen)
The Deputy Director manages daily operations of the department and serves as acting director during absences of the Director/Secretary. The Deputy Director acts as the liaison between NMDA and NMSU administration for the department.
Business Support Services (Tammy Bracamonte)
Business Support Services (BSS) oversees budgeting, accounting systems, purchasing, and grant and contract administration.
Public Affairs (Candie Sweetser)
Public Affairs focuses on media relations, stakeholder engagement, government outreach, industry partners, and the broader public to promote agriculture and communicate the department’s mission and goals. The division oversees public awareness campaigns, news releases, graphic designs, social media, photography, website development, publications, and special events, and provides editorial assistance to NMDA divisions.
Human Resources (Cheryl Mason)
The Human Resource Office contributes to the effective and efficient operation of NMDA through strategic personnel management. This includes leadership, guidance and assistance to our staff, and supporting our collaborative relationship to NMSU.
Information Technology & Communications (Tony Marquez)
Information Technology & Communications (ITC) oversees all phases of the information technology needs including policies, procedures, and personnel associated with computer mainframe applications, PCs, servers and software licensing, and cell phones and their applications.
Public Records Requests
New Mexico has a very broad Public Records Law. The deputy director acts as the custodian of public records.
Director's/Secretary’s Office
nmagsec@nmda.nmsu.edu
575-646-3007