Cherokee Nation Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Cherokee Nation has 8 executives leading key functions including sovereign governance, information technology, administrative operations, financial management, health technology, and presidential oversight.

Committed to the advancement of tribal citizens, Cherokee Nation drives sustainable economic development and cultural preservation while maintaining sovereign authority over community resources and public services.

Leadership Roles at Cherokee Nation

  • Chief Financial Officer - Steven Holder
  • President - Ken Groce
  • Seq. A. A. President - Marshall Dewayne
  • Chief Information Officer - Donnie Parish
  • Chief of Staff - Clayton Fulton
  • Chief Technology Officer, Health - Aaron Arterberry
  • Chief Administrative Officer - Jessica Lewandowski
  • Principal Chief - Chuck Hoskin
  • Steven Holder - Chief Financial Officer

    Steven Holder, the Chief Financial Officer at Cherokee Nation, manages the fiscal health and budgetary planning for the sovereign government. Overseeing the allocation of tribal funds, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that all financial resources support the long-term sustainability of community programs and infrastructure projects. This leadership role involves monitoring revenue streams, managing investments, and maintaining rigorous compliance with federal and tribal financial regulations. By providing accurate economic forecasting, Steven Holder enables the executive team to make informed decisions regarding resource distribution. The Chief Financial Officer collaborates with department heads to optimize spending and improve the efficiency of public services. Through the implementation of sound fiscal policies, Holder secures the financial future of the tribe, ensuring that capital remains available for critical initiatives. This role drives the economic stability of the nation, supporting the growth of programs that directly benefit the citizens of the Cherokee Nation.

    Ken Groce - President

    Ken Groce, the President at Cherokee Nation, leads specific business enterprises and commercial initiatives that generate revenue for the tribal government. Overseeing the growth of tribal business ventures, the President ensures that all commercial activities align with the economic development goals of the nation. This leadership role involves managing partnerships, identifying new market opportunities, and driving profitability across various business sectors. By focusing on sustainable economic expansion, Ken Groce contributes to the financial independence of the tribe. The President collaborates with the executive team to ensure that business profits are reinvested into community programs and public services. Through strategic oversight of commercial operations, Groce strengthens the economic foundation of the nation, creating jobs and opportunities for tribal citizens. This role remains vital for the long-term prosperity of the community, as the President drives the success of enterprises that support the sovereign government's mission.

    Marshall Dewayne - Seq. A. A. President

    Marshall Dewayne, the Seq. A. A. President at Cherokee Nation, directs specialized educational and cultural initiatives aimed at preserving the heritage of the Cherokee people. Overseeing the development of language programs and historical archives, the Seq. A. A. President ensures that cultural knowledge remains accessible to future generations. This leadership role involves managing educational partnerships and coordinating with community leaders to promote the revitalization of traditional practices. By fostering an environment of learning and cultural pride, Marshall Dewayne strengthens the identity of the nation. The Seq. A. A. President collaborates with other executive leaders to integrate cultural education into broader tribal programs. Through the implementation of innovative outreach strategies, Dewayne expands the reach of cultural initiatives, ensuring that the history and language of the Cherokee people continue to thrive. This role remains essential for the preservation of the unique cultural legacy that defines the Cherokee Nation.

    Donnie Parish - Chief Information Officer

    Donnie Parish, the Chief Information Officer at Cherokee Nation, manages the digital infrastructure and data security protocols essential for modern tribal governance. Overseeing the integration of enterprise software systems, the Chief Information Officer ensures that all departments maintain seamless access to critical information resources. This leadership role involves architecting robust network solutions that support the administrative needs of the government while safeguarding sensitive citizen data against emerging cyber threats. By optimizing internal communication platforms, Donnie Parish improves operational efficiency across the entire organization. The Chief Information Officer collaborates with other executive leaders to align technology investments with the long-term strategic goals of the tribe. Through the implementation of scalable digital tools, Parish facilitates better service delivery for tribal citizens, ensuring that the technological foundation remains resilient and capable of supporting the evolving requirements of the sovereign government.

    Clayton Fulton - Chief of Staff

    Clayton Fulton, the Chief of Staff at Cherokee Nation, coordinates the daily operations of the executive office and facilitates communication between various governmental departments. Overseeing the execution of strategic initiatives, the Chief of Staff ensures that all administrative activities align with the directives set by the Principal Chief. This leadership role involves managing complex projects that span multiple sectors, including public health, education, and economic development. By streamlining internal workflows, Clayton Fulton enhances the overall productivity of the executive team. The Chief of Staff acts as a primary liaison for the tribal council, ensuring that policy objectives receive the necessary support and resources for successful implementation. Through rigorous oversight of organizational processes, Fulton maintains high standards of accountability and transparency. This role remains vital for the effective management of the government, ensuring that all departments function in harmony to achieve the broader mission of the nation.

    Aaron Arterberry - Chief Technology Officer, Health

    Aaron Arterberry, the Chief Technology Officer, Health at Cherokee Nation, directs the development and implementation of advanced medical information systems. Overseeing the digital transformation of healthcare services, the Chief Technology Officer, Health ensures that medical providers have access to accurate patient data and efficient diagnostic tools. This leadership role involves integrating electronic health records with broader tribal administrative systems to improve patient outcomes across the regional health network. By leveraging innovative technology, Aaron Arterberry enhances the quality of care provided to tribal citizens. The Chief Technology Officer, Health collaborates with clinical leadership to identify opportunities for digital improvement and operational efficiency. Through the deployment of secure health information platforms, Arterberry supports the expansion of medical services and ensures that the healthcare infrastructure remains at the forefront of modern medicine. This role remains essential for maintaining the health and well-being of the community through technological excellence.

    Jessica Lewandowski - Chief Administrative Officer

    Jessica Lewandowski, the Chief Administrative Officer at Cherokee Nation, manages the internal business operations and organizational support functions of the tribal government. Overseeing human resources, facilities management, and administrative policy, the Chief Administrative Officer ensures that all departments operate within a cohesive and efficient framework. This leadership role involves developing programs that improve employee engagement and organizational performance across the entire government. By standardizing administrative procedures, Jessica Lewandowski reduces operational friction and enhances the delivery of support services. The Chief Administrative Officer collaborates with other executive leaders to align internal processes with the strategic objectives of the nation. Through the effective management of organizational resources, Lewandowski fosters a productive work environment that supports the broader mission of the tribe. This role remains critical for maintaining the operational integrity of the government, ensuring that all administrative functions contribute to the overall success of the Cherokee Nation.

    Chuck Hoskin - Principal Chief

    Chuck Hoskin, the Principal Chief at Cherokee Nation, directs the sovereign operations and strategic vision for the entire tribal government. Overseeing intergovernmental relations and public policy, the Principal Chief ensures the protection of tribal rights while advancing economic prosperity for all citizens. This leadership role involves coordinating with the tribal council to implement legislation that impacts housing, education, and healthcare infrastructure across the jurisdictional territory. By fostering partnerships with federal and state entities, Chuck Hoskin expands the reach of tribal programs and secures long-term stability for the community. The Principal Chief maintains a focus on cultural integrity, ensuring that all governmental initiatives align with the core values of the Cherokee people. Through consistent engagement with tribal members, Hoskin drives progress in community development and strengthens the sovereign status of the nation within the broader regional landscape.
    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 Steven Holder (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Ken Groce (President) and Marshall Dewayne (Seq. A. A. President).
    Who is part of Cherokee Nation’s executive team?
    The executive team of Cherokee Nation includes leaders such as Steven Holder (Chief Financial Officer), Ken Groce (President), Marshall Dewayne (Seq. A. A. President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Cherokee Nation have?
    Cherokee Nation has 8 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 Financial Officer, President, Seq. A. A. President, Chief Information Officer, Chief of Staff.