Mayor Tim Keller Announces Two Appointments in Economic Development and Finance

March 6, 2019

Today, Mayor Tim Keller announced two new appointees to key positions in the City of Albuquerque. Lara Davis will be joining the Finance Department as Risk Manager, and Amber Dodson will be joining the Economic Development Department as the new Film Liaison for the City.

“Risk Management provides a safeguard for taxpayer dollars, keeping the City’s insurance costs low and identifying potential problems before they happen. Lara brings years of experience to the table,” said Mayor Keller.

He added, “Film is a big part of our economy—and it’s only growing. In 2017 alone, the industry spent $180 million and supported thousands of local jobs. With eighteen years of professional film experience, Amber will help us expand the industry in our community.”

“We continue to make it a priority to bring on fresh talent and strong, diverse leadership to serve our city.”

Lara Davis, Risk Manager, Finance Department

Lara has been a member of the New Mexico State Bar since 1997. She practiced law for fifteen years primarily engaged in civil defense litigation. Lara has over five years of specialized experience as a public administrator focused on risk management in the public sector. Davis is a New Mexican native who for the past seventeen years has made her home in Albuquerque with her husband and two teenage sons. Outside of work, Lara loves to spend time at the City's golf courses and is often found cheering on her boys at the ice hockey rink.

Amber Dodson, Film Liaison, Economic Development Department

Amber Dodson began her career at Dish Network in marketing and advertising where she managed and produced television and video communications. As an independent producer, Amber created industrial films and commercials. She also developed and fundraised for narrative and documentary projects. Dodson was an Associate Producer on the award-winning feature documentary "Journey to Zanskar".  At Threshold Entertainment, she was the Production Associate managing multiple aspects of film and television projects. Amber served as Head of Business Development at Scenechronize where she closed enterprise-level sales with Hollywood studios, networks, and production companies.  Most recently, Amber has been a consultant for tech startups targeting the Hollywood entertainment industry.  Amber is a graduate of The Colorado College, a resident of Albuquerque for several years and mother of two children.