Title: Chief Executive Officer
Company: Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians
Location: Solvang, California, United States
John D. Elliott, CEO, chief executive officer of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Executives for dedication, achievements, and leadership in economic development.
With nearly four and a half decades of experience, Mr. Elliott has established a distinguished career in consulting and economic development, with a focus on Native American tribes. Since 2020, he has served as the chief executive officer for the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. In this role, he oversees a workforce at the tribe’s casino resort, manages various government services for the community, and diversifies the tribe’s economic development strategies. He is also spearheading the development of a tribal museum to serve as a cultural and educational resource for the tribe and the broader community.
Mr. Elliott’s experience also includes serving as president and chief executive officer of Choctaw Global in 2019 and holding leadership roles with the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, where he was senior and acting executive officer for the division of commerce from 2018 to 2019 and chief executive officer of the division of commerce from 2016 to 2018. Earlier in his career, he was chief executive officer at Global Gaming Solutions for the Chickasaw Nation from 2008 to 2016 and chief financial officer for the Department of Commerce at the Chickasaw Nation from 2005 to 2008. His other roles include president of UMS Group Inc. from 2002 to 2005, partner at Andersen Business Consulting from 1993 to 2002, and partner at Arthur Andersen from 1980 to 1993.
Additionally, Mr. Elliott dedicates his time to the United Methodist Church and serves as an advisory board member for the Needs Foundation and the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. He is also a founding member of Students in Free Enterprise/Enactus and has participated in G100 Next Generation Leadership. Laying a strong educational foundation, he earned a bachelor’s degree in financial administration from the University of New England and a Master of Business Administration from the Australian Graduate School of Management at the University of New South Wales. Additionally, he is a chartered accountant through Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand.
Reflecting on his path, Mr. Elliott transitioned from a successful career in consulting to focusing on Native American economic development. Combining his financial acumen with a deep understanding of economic development and tribal governance, he has made significant contributions to advancing Native American communities. Through strategic investments and diversification efforts, he has facilitated job creation, enhanced community services, and fostered long-term growth. One of his most notable achievements is the establishment and leadership of successful economic development enterprises that have generated substantial revenue and employment opportunities within tribal communities. Additionally, he takes pride in mentoring tribal leaders, equipping them with the skills and insights needed to drive sustainable growth and prosperity for future generations.
In light of his impressive undertakings, Mr. Elliott has been recognized with the Best of the Best Award in 2022, the Allen Bogan Memorial Award from the Texas Thoroughbred Association in 2015, and the Tribal Gaming Visionary Award from the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development in 2014. He attributes his success to the guidance of strong mentors and the diverse influences in his life. In advising aspiring professionals, he emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning, acquiring new skills, and embracing challenges that foster growth and expertise. Looking to the future, as he approaches retirement, he is committed to ensuring that the Chumash community is well taken care of. Following retirement, he aims to join boards focused on community and charitable initiatives rather than corporate ventures. He also plans to consult with smaller tribes, helping them overcome the unique challenges they face due to limited access to skilled professionals.
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