Economic Development Director Max Gruner, MA

Max Gruner has an extensive background in economic and community development, with over 25 years of leadership in organizations that help people, strengthen communities, and improve economies. Most recently, Mr. Gruner served as the New Mexico Economic Development Department (EDD) Regional Representative for Bernalillo, Valencia, and Torrance Counties. In 2020, he was appointed to be the Tribal Liaison by Secretary Keyes, and subsequently served EDD as the Statewide Native American Coordinator for economic development. Prior to that, Mr. Gruner was the Executive Director of East Boston Main Streets and he founded and led Boston's citywide Main Streets Coalition, where he worked in close partnership with the City of Boston and its diverse communities to build and strengthen a vibrant local small business ecosystem.

Born and raised in Germany, and with dual citizenship, Mr. Gruner brings a commitment to international trade and experience in recruitment of foreign companies. He is eager to bring his experience supporting small and micro businesses, along with his expertise in working with large and global companies, to strengthen Albuquerque's economy. 

Max has been involved in many of the State’s most significant new economic development projects over the last several years, including Blue Halo, Build with Robots, and Universal Hydrogen.

Mr. Gruner holds bachelor's and master's degrees from St. John's College. He earned his EMT license at Santa Fe Community College, and he volunteers as a ski patroller and instructor at Sandia Ski Area.