Cherokee Nation Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Cherokee Nation has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, administration, finance, and governance.

Driven by sovereign governance, Cherokee Nation is dedicated to advancing the well-being and prosperity of its citizens through robust community development and cultural preservation.

Leadership Roles at Cherokee Nation

  • Chief Executive Officer - Gerald Cantrell
  • Chief Financial Officer - Steven Holder
  • President - Annie Mcclain
  • President - Alicia Mclemore
  • President & Board of Directors - Julia Coates
  • Seq. A. A. President - DeWayne Marshall
  • Chief of Staff - Clayton Fulton
  • Senior Advisor To the Chief of Staff - Austin Patton
  • Chief Administrative Officer - Jessica Lewandowski
  • Principal Chief - Charles Hoskin
  • Gerald Cantrell - Chief Executive Officer

    Gerald Cantrell, the Chief Executive Officer at Cherokee Nation, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational execution for the sovereign government. Cantrell oversees critical functions that ensure the effective delivery of services to Cherokee citizens, aligning all departmental efforts with the nation's long-term objectives. This leadership role involves driving initiatives that foster economic development and enhance community well-being across the nation's territories. By managing intergovernmental relations and advocating for tribal sovereignty, Gerald Cantrell secures the nation's interests on federal and state levels. The Chief Executive Officer's mandate includes optimizing resource allocation and ensuring fiscal responsibility across all government operations, thereby strengthening the nation's capacity to serve its people.

    Steven Holder - Chief Financial Officer

    Steven Holder, the Chief Financial Officer at Cherokee Nation, directs all financial planning, management, and reporting for the sovereign government. Holder oversees the allocation of resources, ensuring fiscal integrity and compliance with all regulatory requirements. This executive function involves managing the nation's budget, investments, and financial operations to support its governmental and economic development objectives. By implementing sound financial strategies, Steven Holder safeguards the nation's assets and promotes sustainable growth. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include providing critical financial analysis to guide executive decisions and ensuring the long-term economic stability of the Cherokee Nation, thereby supporting its mission to serve its citizens.

    Annie Mcclain - President

    Annie Mcclain, the President at Cherokee Nation, leads specific operational divisions, driving strategic objectives within designated areas of the sovereign government. Mcclain focuses on executing programs and initiatives that directly benefit Cherokee citizens, ensuring alignment with the nation's broader governmental mission. This leadership role involves overseeing departmental performance, managing budgets, and fostering collaboration to achieve key outcomes. By directing specialized functions, Annie Mcclain contributes to the nation's capacity to deliver essential services and promote economic development. The President's mandate includes ensuring operational excellence and strategic execution within their assigned purview, thereby supporting the overall governance and welfare of the Cherokee people.

    Alicia Mclemore - President

    Alicia Mclemore, the President at Cherokee Nation, directs key strategic initiatives and operational units, contributing to the sovereign government's overall effectiveness. Mclemore focuses on advancing specific programs designed to enhance citizen well-being and economic opportunity, aligning with the nation's core objectives. This executive position involves managing departmental operations, overseeing project implementation, and ensuring the efficient allocation of resources. By driving forward targeted initiatives, Alicia Mclemore plays a vital role in the nation's development and service provision. The President's responsibilities include ensuring the successful execution of assigned mandates and fostering innovation within their operational sphere, thereby supporting the Cherokee Nation's mission.

    Julia Coates - President & Board of Directors

    Julia Coates, the President & Board of Directors at Cherokee Nation, provides critical oversight and strategic direction for the sovereign government's governing body. Coates leads the Board of Directors in its fiduciary responsibilities, ensuring adherence to governance principles and the nation's foundational laws. This leadership position involves guiding policy development, approving major initiatives, and ensuring the effective management of the nation's resources. By chairing board meetings and facilitating strategic discussions, Julia Coates ensures robust governance and accountability. The President & Board of Directors' role is essential in upholding the integrity of the nation's operations and safeguarding the interests of its citizens, thereby reinforcing its sovereign status.
    Julia Coates

    DeWayne Marshall - Seq. A. A. President

    DeWayne Marshall, the Seq. A. A. President at Cherokee Nation, leads specific operational areas, driving strategic execution and program delivery for the sovereign government. Marshall focuses on advancing key objectives within designated sectors, ensuring that initiatives directly benefit Cherokee citizens and align with national priorities. This executive function involves managing departmental operations, overseeing project timelines, and optimizing resource deployment for maximum impact. By directing specialized functions, DeWayne Marshall contributes significantly to the nation's capacity for effective governance and service provision. The Seq. A. A. President's responsibilities include ensuring the successful implementation of assigned mandates and fostering operational excellence within their purview, thereby supporting the Cherokee Nation's mission.

    Clayton Fulton - Chief of Staff

    Clayton Fulton, the Chief of Staff at Cherokee Nation, manages the day-to-day operations of the executive office and ensures seamless coordination across all governmental departments. Fulton provides critical support to the Principal Chief, facilitating strategic initiatives and overseeing the implementation of key policies. This role involves directing administrative functions, streamlining interdepartmental communication, and resolving operational challenges to enhance governmental efficiency. By coordinating legislative efforts and managing executive priorities, Clayton Fulton directly contributes to the nation's governance and service delivery. The Chief of Staff's purview includes advising on critical matters and ensuring the effective execution of the nation's strategic agenda, thereby bolstering the overall capacity of the sovereign government.

    Austin Patton - Senior Advisor To the Chief of Staff

    Austin Patton, the Senior Advisor To the Chief of Staff at Cherokee Nation, provides strategic counsel and operational support to enhance governmental effectiveness. Patton assists the Chief of Staff in managing key initiatives and coordinating interdepartmental projects, ensuring alignment with the nation's overarching goals. This advisory role involves conducting in-depth analysis of policy proposals and operational challenges, offering expert recommendations to senior leadership. By facilitating communication and driving project completion, Austin Patton contributes significantly to the efficient functioning of the executive office. The Senior Advisor's focus includes identifying opportunities for process improvement and supporting the strategic implementation of the nation's agenda, thereby strengthening its sovereign governance.

    Jessica Lewandowski - Chief Administrative Officer

    Jessica Lewandowski, the Chief Administrative Officer at Cherokee Nation, oversees the comprehensive administrative functions that support the sovereign government's operations. Lewandowski manages human resources, information technology, and facilities management, ensuring efficient service delivery to all departments. This executive position involves developing and implementing policies that enhance organizational efficiency and employee engagement across the nation. By optimizing administrative processes and resource utilization, Jessica Lewandowski ensures that the governmental infrastructure effectively supports the nation's mission. The Chief Administrative Officer's responsibilities include fostering a productive work environment and maintaining the operational integrity of the nation's administrative framework, thereby contributing to its overall success.

    Charles Hoskin - Principal Chief

    Charles Hoskin, the Principal Chief at Cherokee Nation, champions the sovereign government's mission and guides its strategic direction. Hoskin leads the executive branch, focusing on advancing the rights and welfare of Cherokee citizens through robust policy development and implementation. This executive position involves direct engagement with federal and state agencies to uphold tribal sovereignty and secure essential resources for community programs. By fostering economic growth and preserving cultural heritage, Charles Hoskin ensures the enduring strength and prosperity of the Cherokee people. The Principal Chief's responsibilities include overseeing major governmental initiatives and representing the nation in significant public forums, driving forward the collective interests of the citizenry.
    Charles Hoskin

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Cherokee Nation Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Cherokee Nation?
    Cherokee Nation is led by Gerald Cantrell (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Steven Holder (Chief Financial Officer) and Annie Mcclain (President).
    Who is part of Cherokee Nation’s executive team?
    The executive team of Cherokee Nation includes leaders such as Gerald Cantrell (Chief Executive Officer), Steven Holder (Chief Financial Officer), Annie Mcclain (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Cherokee Nation have?
    Cherokee Nation has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Cherokee Nation’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Cherokee Nation includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President, President, President & Board of Directors.