Cherokee Nation Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Driven by a commitment to self-governance, Cherokee Nation operates as the sovereign government for the Cherokee people, focusing on community welfare, economic development, and cultural preservation from its capital in Tahlequah, Oklahoma.

Leadership Roles at Cherokee Nation

  • Chief Executive Officer - Gerald Cantrell
  • Chief Financial Officer - Steven Holder
  • President - Alicia Mclemore
  • Seq. A. A. President - DeWayne Marshall
  • President - Annie Mcclain
  • President & Board of Directors - Julia Coates
  • 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 the integration of governmental functions, ensuring alignment with the core mission of serving Cherokee citizens. This leadership role involves driving initiatives that enhance community well-being and economic sustainability across the nation. By focusing on efficient resource allocation and effective policy implementation, Gerald Cantrell ensures the government's capacity to meet the evolving needs of its people. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to fostering intergovernmental relations and advancing the nation's interests on a broader scale, solidifying its position as a federally recognized tribe.

    Steven Holder - Chief Financial Officer

    Steven Holder, the Chief Financial Officer at Cherokee Nation, directs all fiscal operations and financial strategy for the sovereign government. Holder oversees budgeting, financial planning, and resource management, ensuring the responsible allocation of funds to support tribal programs and services. This executive position involves managing investments, securing funding, and maintaining financial transparency and accountability. By implementing robust financial controls and driving fiscal discipline, the Chief Financial Officer safeguards the nation's economic stability and growth. Steven Holder's leadership ensures that financial resources are effectively leveraged to advance the well-being and prosperity of the Cherokee people.

    Alicia Mclemore - President

    Alicia Mclemore, the President at Cherokee Nation, leads specific operational divisions, driving strategic objectives within designated areas of the sovereign government. Mclemore focuses on executing programs and initiatives that directly benefit the Cherokee people, ensuring alignment with the nation's overall mission. This leadership position involves overseeing departmental performance, managing resources, and fostering collaboration to achieve key outcomes. By directing critical functions, the President ensures the effective implementation of policies and services that enhance community well-being. Alicia Mclemore's contributions are vital to the nation's ongoing efforts to promote economic development and cultural vitality.

    DeWayne Marshall - Seq. A. A. President

    DeWayne Marshall, the Seq. A. A. President at Cherokee Nation, directs specific programmatic or administrative areas, contributing to the nation's governance and service delivery. Marshall focuses on the execution of targeted initiatives designed to support the Cherokee people, ensuring operational efficiency and strategic alignment. This role involves managing departmental responsibilities and fostering effective teamwork to achieve defined objectives. By overseeing key functions, DeWayne Marshall ensures that critical programs are implemented successfully, enhancing the quality of life for citizens. The Seq. A. A. President's work is integral to the nation's commitment to its people and its sovereign responsibilities.

    Annie Mcclain - President

    Annie Mcclain, the President at Cherokee Nation, leads distinct operational units, driving strategic execution and program development. Mcclain is responsible for overseeing departmental functions, ensuring that initiatives align with the nation's core mission of serving its citizens. This executive position involves managing resources, fostering interdepartmental cooperation, and achieving specific performance targets. By directing key areas of operation, Annie Mcclain contributes to the effective delivery of services and the advancement of economic and cultural programs. The President's leadership is crucial in realizing the nation's goals for its people and its sovereign future.

    Julia Coates - President & Board of Directors

    Julia Coates, the President & Board of Directors at Cherokee Nation, provides high-level strategic oversight and governance for the sovereign government. Coates leads the Board of Directors in setting the long-term vision and ensuring accountability across all governmental operations. This critical role involves guiding policy development, approving major initiatives, and ensuring the nation's financial health and operational integrity. By chairing the Board, Julia Coates ensures that decisions are made in the best interest of the Cherokee people, upholding the principles of self-governance. The President's leadership is fundamental to maintaining the nation's sovereignty and advancing its mission.
    Julia Coates

    Clayton Fulton - Chief of Staff

    Clayton Fulton, the Chief of Staff at Cherokee Nation, provides direct operational support and strategic counsel to the Principal Chief. Fulton manages the day-to-day administrative functions of the executive office, ensuring seamless coordination across governmental departments. This role involves prioritizing initiatives, facilitating communication, and driving the execution of key policy objectives. Overseeing critical projects and interdepartmental collaborations, the Chief of Staff ensures that the government operates with maximum efficiency and effectiveness. By streamlining processes and enhancing organizational capacity, Clayton Fulton plays a vital part in advancing the nation's mission to serve its citizens and uphold its sovereign status.

    Austin Patton - Senior Advisor To the Chief of Staff

    Austin Patton, the Senior Advisor To the Chief of Staff at Cherokee Nation, provides expert guidance and strategic support to enhance governmental operations. Patton assists the Chief of Staff in developing and implementing key initiatives, focusing on operational improvements and policy development. This advisory role involves conducting research, analyzing complex issues, and formulating recommendations to advance the nation's objectives. By offering critical insights and strategic perspectives, Austin Patton contributes to the effective functioning of the executive leadership team. The Senior Advisor's contributions are instrumental in ensuring that the government remains agile and responsive to the needs of the Cherokee people.

    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 directs human resources, information technology, and facilities management, ensuring efficient and effective service delivery across all departments. This executive role involves developing and implementing administrative policies and procedures that enhance organizational performance and employee engagement. By optimizing internal processes and fostering a productive work environment, the Chief Administrative Officer ensures that the government has the necessary infrastructure to serve its citizens. Jessica Lewandowski's leadership strengthens the operational backbone of the nation, enabling its strategic goals.

    Charles Hoskin - Principal Chief

    Charles Hoskin, the Principal Chief at Cherokee Nation, leads the sovereign government, embodying its commitment to the Cherokee people. Hoskin champions policies that strengthen tribal sovereignty, promote economic development, and preserve cultural heritage. This executive position involves direct engagement with federal and state governments to advocate for tribal rights and resources. Overseeing critical governmental operations, the Principal Chief ensures the effective delivery of services to citizens across various sectors, including healthcare, education, and housing. By fostering a strong sense of community and self-determination, Charles Hoskin guides the nation toward a prosperous and culturally rich future, reinforcing its identity and resilience.
    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 Alicia Mclemore (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), Alicia Mclemore (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.