Cherokee Nation Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Guided by a commitment to sovereignty and the well-being of its citizens, Cherokee Nation operates as a sovereign government, driving economic development and preserving cultural heritage for the Cherokee people.

Leadership Roles at Cherokee Nation

  • Chief Executive Officer - Gerald Cantrell
  • Chief Financial Officer - Steven Holder
  • President - Annie Mcclain
  • Seq. A. A. President - DeWayne Marshall
  • President - Ken Groce
  • Chief Information Officer - Donnie Parrish
  • Chief of Staff - Clayton Fulton
  • Chief Technology Officer, Health - Aaron Arterberry
  • 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 initiatives and operational frameworks for the sovereign government. Overseeing critical governmental functions, Gerald Cantrell ensures alignment with the nation's mission of serving its citizens and preserving cultural identity. This leadership position involves managing intergovernmental relations and fostering economic development opportunities across the nation's territories. By driving policy implementation and resource allocation, Gerald Cantrell directly impacts the nation's capacity to provide essential services and advance its long-term objectives. Ultimately, Cantrell secures the operational integrity and strategic direction of the Cherokee Nation's governmental operations.

    Steven Holder - Chief Financial Officer

    Steven Holder, the Chief Financial Officer at Cherokee Nation, directs the fiscal management and financial strategy for the sovereign government. Overseeing all financial operations, Steven Holder ensures the responsible stewardship of public funds and the sustainable economic health of the nation. This executive position involves developing budgets, managing investments, and ensuring compliance with all financial regulations. By implementing robust financial controls and reporting mechanisms, Steven Holder directly impacts the nation's ability to fund essential programs and services. Ultimately, Holder maintains the financial integrity and long-term economic viability of the Cherokee Nation.

    Annie Mcclain - President

    Annie Mcclain, the President at Cherokee Nation, drives strategic initiatives and operational oversight across key governmental divisions. Overseeing critical programs, Annie Mcclain ensures alignment with the nation's sovereign mission and commitment to its citizens. This leadership role involves fostering interdepartmental collaboration and advancing economic development opportunities. By guiding strategic planning and resource deployment, Annie Mcclain directly impacts the nation's capacity to achieve its long-term goals. Ultimately, Mcclain strengthens the operational framework and strategic direction of the Cherokee Nation's diverse enterprises.

    DeWayne Marshall - Seq. A. A. President

    DeWayne Marshall, the Seq. A. A. President at Cherokee Nation, leads specific strategic initiatives and operational oversight within designated governmental sectors. Overseeing key programs, DeWayne Marshall ensures adherence to the nation's sovereign objectives and dedication to its citizenry. This executive position involves cultivating cross-divisional cooperation and promoting economic advancement. By directing strategic planning and resource allocation, DeWayne Marshall directly influences the nation's ability to meet its established targets. Ultimately, Marshall reinforces the operational structure and strategic trajectory of the Cherokee Nation's specialized divisions.

    Ken Groce - President

    Ken Groce, the President at Cherokee Nation, directs strategic planning and operational execution across vital governmental functions. Overseeing essential departments, Ken Groce ensures the nation's sovereign mandate and commitment to its people are consistently upheld. This leadership capacity involves promoting synergy among various divisions and advancing economic growth initiatives. By guiding strategic development and resource management, Ken Groce directly contributes to the nation's achievement of its overarching objectives. Ultimately, Groce fortifies the operational framework and strategic momentum of the Cherokee Nation's core entities.

    Donnie Parrish - Chief Information Officer

    Donnie Parrish, the Chief Information Officer at Cherokee Nation, architects the technological infrastructure and digital strategy for the sovereign government. Overseeing all information systems, Donnie Parrish ensures the secure and efficient management of data critical to governmental operations and citizen services. This role involves implementing innovative technology solutions that enhance operational effectiveness and support the nation's mission. By driving digital transformation initiatives, Donnie Parrish directly impacts the accessibility and delivery of government services. Ultimately, Parrish safeguards the nation's technological assets and advances its digital capabilities for future growth and stability.

    Clayton Fulton - Chief of Staff

    Clayton Fulton, the Chief of Staff at Cherokee Nation, manages the executive office and facilitates the strategic execution of governmental initiatives. Overseeing critical administrative functions, Clayton Fulton ensures seamless coordination between departments and supports the Principal Chief's agenda. This role involves streamlining operations, managing key projects, and advising leadership on policy matters. By driving operational efficiency and interdepartmental collaboration, Clayton Fulton directly impacts the effective governance of the Cherokee Nation. Ultimately, Fulton enhances the leadership's capacity to advance the nation's objectives and serve its citizens.

    Aaron Arterberry - Chief Technology Officer, Health

    Aaron Arterberry, the Chief Technology Officer, Health at Cherokee Nation, spearheads the technological advancements within the nation's healthcare services. Overseeing health IT systems, Aaron Arterberry ensures the integration of cutting-edge technology to improve patient care, data management, and operational efficiency in healthcare delivery. This critical role involves developing and implementing technology strategies that support the nation's commitment to providing comprehensive health services to its citizens. By driving innovation in health technology, Aaron Arterberry directly enhances the quality and accessibility of healthcare. Ultimately, Arterberry strengthens the technological foundation of Cherokee Nation's health programs.

    Jessica Lewandowski - Chief Administrative Officer

    Jessica Lewandowski, the Chief Administrative Officer at Cherokee Nation, oversees the comprehensive administrative operations that support the sovereign government's functions. Managing essential services such as human resources, facilities, and procurement, Jessica Lewandowski ensures the efficient and effective delivery of governmental support functions. This executive position involves developing and implementing administrative policies and procedures to enhance organizational performance. By optimizing administrative processes and resource allocation, Jessica Lewandowski directly impacts the operational capacity of the Cherokee Nation. Ultimately, Lewandowski ensures the smooth functioning of the government's internal infrastructure.

    Charles Hoskin - Principal Chief

    Charles Hoskin, the Principal Chief at Cherokee Nation, leads the sovereign government, embodying its commitment to the Cherokee people. Guiding the nation's vision, Charles Hoskin champions initiatives focused on economic prosperity, healthcare access, and cultural preservation. This executive role involves representing the Cherokee Nation in national and international forums, advocating for tribal sovereignty and self-determination. By fostering strong community engagement and strategic partnerships, Charles Hoskin directly influences the nation's ability to address the evolving needs of its citizens. Ultimately, Hoskin ensures the enduring strength and resilience of the Cherokee Nation through dedicated leadership and advocacy.
    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, Seq. A. A. President, President.