Cherokee Nation Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Cherokee Nation has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, governance, operations, finance, technology, health, administration, and board oversight.

Committed to sovereign prosperity, Cherokee Nation advances the welfare of the Cherokee people through robust governance, economic development, and the preservation of cultural heritage across its jurisdictional territories.

Leadership Roles at Cherokee Nation

  • Chief Executive Officer - Ben Stevens
  • Chief Financial Officer - Steven Holder
  • President - Ken Groce
  • Seq. A. A. President - Marshall Dewayne
  • President & Board of Directors - Julia Coates
  • Chief of Staff - Clayton Fulton
  • Chief Information Officer - Donnie Parrish
  • Chief Technology Officer, Health - Aaron Arterberry
  • Chief Administrative Officer - Jessica Lewandowski
  • Principal Chief - Chuck Hoskin
  • Ben Stevens - Chief Executive Officer

    Ben Stevens, the Chief Executive Officer at Cherokee Nation, directs the overarching strategic operations of the sovereign government. Ben Stevens manages the execution of tribal programs, ensuring alignment with the long-term goals of the Cherokee people. By overseeing complex administrative frameworks, the Chief Executive Officer optimizes resource allocation across diverse departments. This leadership role involves coordinating with various governmental branches to maintain operational efficiency and fiscal responsibility. The Chief Executive Officer drives initiatives that support economic growth and community development throughout the tribal jurisdiction. Through rigorous oversight of internal processes, the Chief Executive Officer maintains the integrity of governmental services. By fostering collaboration among executive leadership, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that all programs meet the evolving needs of the citizenry. This position requires constant vigilance regarding policy implementation and the delivery of essential public services to the community.

    Steven Holder - Chief Financial Officer

    Steven Holder, the Chief Financial Officer at Cherokee Nation, oversees the fiscal health and financial planning of the sovereign government. Steven Holder directs the budgeting process, ensuring that resources support critical programs and long-term economic stability. By managing financial reporting and auditing procedures, the Chief Financial Officer maintains transparency and accountability in all fiscal matters. This leadership role involves analyzing economic trends to inform strategic decision-making across the organization. The Chief Financial Officer drives investment strategies that bolster the financial reserves of the nation. Through rigorous oversight of revenue streams and expenditures, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that the government remains capable of funding essential services for the community. By collaborating with other executive leaders, the Chief Financial Officer aligns financial goals with the broader mission of the Cherokee people, securing the economic future of the sovereign entity.

    Ken Groce - President

    Ken Groce, the President at Cherokee Nation, leads specific operational divisions focused on economic development and community enterprise. Ken Groce directs the growth of business initiatives that generate revenue for the tribe, supporting the funding of essential public programs. By overseeing the management of commercial assets, the President ensures that these enterprises operate profitably and sustainably. This leadership role involves identifying new market opportunities and fostering partnerships that expand the economic footprint of the nation. The President drives the strategic planning for business units, ensuring that all activities align with the long-term prosperity of the Cherokee people. Through the oversight of operational performance, the President maintains high standards of excellence across all managed enterprises. By collaborating with the board and other executives, the President ensures that economic activities contribute directly to the overall mission and stability of the sovereign government.

    Marshall Dewayne - Seq. A. A. President

    Marshall Dewayne, the Seq. A. A. President at Cherokee Nation, manages specialized educational and cultural programs designed to preserve the heritage of the Cherokee people. Marshall Dewayne directs the curriculum and operational standards for these initiatives, ensuring that language and history remain central to the community experience. By overseeing the administration of educational resources, the Seq. A. A. President supports the development of future leaders within the tribe. This leadership role involves coordinating with cultural experts and educators to maintain the integrity of all programs. The Seq. A. A. President drives outreach efforts that engage citizens in the preservation of their unique identity. Through the management of these vital programs, the Seq. A. A. President ensures that the cultural legacy of the nation remains vibrant. By aligning educational goals with the broader mission of the government, the Seq. A. A. President fosters a strong sense of community and pride.

    Julia Coates - President & Board of Directors

    Julia Coates, the President & Board of Directors at Cherokee Nation, provides high-level governance and oversight for the strategic direction of the sovereign government. Julia Coates directs the board in establishing policies that protect the interests and sovereignty of the Cherokee people. By overseeing the decision-making process, the President & Board of Directors ensures that all actions align with the constitutional mandates of the nation. This leadership role involves evaluating the performance of executive leadership and providing guidance on critical issues. The President & Board of Directors drives the long-term vision for the tribe, focusing on sustainable growth and community welfare. Through the oversight of board activities, the President & Board of Directors maintains accountability and transparency in governance. By collaborating with other leaders, the President & Board of Directors ensures that the government remains focused on its core mission of serving the Cherokee citizens.
    Julia Coates

    Clayton Fulton - Chief of Staff

    Clayton Fulton, the Chief of Staff at Cherokee Nation, manages the daily operations of the executive office and coordinates communication across all governmental departments. Clayton Fulton facilitates the flow of information between leadership teams, ensuring that strategic directives receive proper attention and execution. By overseeing the administrative workflow, the Chief of Staff maintains organizational cohesion and operational efficiency. This leadership role involves managing complex projects that require cross-departmental collaboration and precise timing. The Chief of Staff drives the implementation of executive priorities, ensuring that all staff members remain aligned with the broader mission of the government. Through careful monitoring of internal operations, the Chief of Staff identifies bottlenecks and implements solutions to improve productivity. By supporting the executive leadership team, the Chief of Staff ensures that the government functions effectively to serve the needs of the Cherokee citizens.

    Donnie Parrish - Chief Information Officer

    Donnie Parrish, the Chief Information Officer at Cherokee Nation, directs the digital infrastructure and information systems that support governmental operations. Donnie Parrish architects secure data management solutions, ensuring that all tribal records and communications remain protected and accessible. By overseeing the implementation of new software and hardware, the Chief Information Officer improves the efficiency of administrative tasks across the organization. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity protocols to safeguard sensitive information against emerging threats. The Chief Information Officer drives the digital transformation of governmental services, making information more readily available to the citizenry. Through the integration of advanced technology, the Chief Information Officer supports the modernization of tribal operations. By collaborating with other departments, the Chief Information Officer ensures that technological resources align with the strategic goals of the government, ultimately enhancing the delivery of services to the Cherokee people.

    Aaron Arterberry - Chief Technology Officer, Health

    Aaron Arterberry, the Chief Technology Officer, Health at Cherokee Nation, manages the specialized technological systems required for the delivery of tribal healthcare services. Aaron Arterberry architects digital health platforms that streamline patient care and improve medical record accuracy across the health system. By overseeing the integration of health information technology, the Chief Technology Officer, Health ensures that medical providers have access to critical data when needed. This leadership role involves managing the security of patient information and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations. The Chief Technology Officer, Health drives innovation in telehealth and digital health initiatives to expand access to care for citizens. Through the deployment of advanced diagnostic and administrative tools, the Chief Technology Officer, Health enhances the overall quality of healthcare services. By aligning technology with clinical needs, the Chief Technology Officer, Health supports the health and well-being of the Cherokee community.

    Jessica Lewandowski - Chief Administrative Officer

    Jessica Lewandowski, the Chief Administrative Officer at Cherokee Nation, directs the internal administrative functions that support the daily operations of the government. Jessica Lewandowski oversees human resources, facilities management, and organizational policy implementation to ensure a productive work environment. By managing administrative processes, the Chief Administrative Officer maintains consistency and compliance across all departments. This leadership role involves developing strategies to improve operational workflows and employee engagement. The Chief Administrative Officer drives initiatives that streamline internal services, allowing other departments to focus on their core missions. Through the oversight of organizational infrastructure, the Chief Administrative Officer ensures that the government operates efficiently and effectively. By collaborating with other executive leaders, the Chief Administrative Officer aligns administrative support with the broader strategic goals of the nation, ensuring that the government remains well-equipped to serve the needs of the Cherokee people.

    Chuck Hoskin - Principal Chief

    Chuck Hoskin, the Principal Chief at Cherokee Nation, serves as the primary representative and executive leader of the sovereign government. Chuck Hoskin architects the vision for tribal advancement, focusing on health, education, and economic stability for all citizens. By directing legislative priorities and intergovernmental relations, the Principal Chief secures the rights and interests of the Cherokee people on a national scale. This leadership role involves managing high-level diplomatic engagements and ensuring the effective administration of tribal laws. The Principal Chief drives policy initiatives that strengthen the cultural and economic foundation of the community. Through consistent engagement with the tribal council, the Principal Chief maintains alignment between governmental actions and the needs of the people. By prioritizing sustainable growth and community welfare, the Principal Chief ensures the long-term prosperity of the nation while upholding the sovereignty of the Cherokee people.
    Chuck 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 Ben Stevens (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Steven Holder (Chief Financial Officer) and Ken Groce (President).
    Who is part of Cherokee Nation’s executive team?
    The executive team of Cherokee Nation includes leaders such as Ben Stevens (Chief Executive Officer), Steven Holder (Chief Financial Officer), Ken Groce (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, Seq. A. A. President, President & Board of Directors.