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TAHLEQUAH, OK - The Cherokee Nation has hired two CPAs to head its Financial Resources group.

Callie Catcher, a Cherokee Nation tribal member, will begin her duties as Controller for the Cherokee Nation on February 18. Catcher leaves her job as controller of Dover Resources, Inc. in Tulsa, where she was responsible for all financial functions for the international manufacturing group, which has several hundred million dollars in annual revenue.

"I've always thought of the Cherokee Nation as a leader for Native American self-governance, and the opportunities here attracted me to the job", said Catcher, who was born and raised in Stilwell. "I just want to be a part of the team that leads Cherokee Nation into the next 100 years."

Joining Catcher will be Darren Burgess, a CPA and former assistant deputy commissioner of the Oklahoma State Health Department. Burgess will serve under Catcher’s direction as the Cherokee Nation’s Chief Financial Operating Officer.

"Adding Catcher and Burgess will provide leadership to our already strong financial group", said Principal Chief Chad Smith. "Catcher has extensive business experience and Burgess has a great government and finance background. Together, they make a strong team to manage the Cherokee Nation’s day-to-day finances."

"I think it will be neat to have this lady Cherokee as Controller", said Barbara Starr-Scott, co-Chair of the Cherokee Nation’s Executive and Finance Committee. "I think we are extremely fortunate to woo her away from a large manufacturing company, and she has the credentials to do what we need her to do. I think Mr. Burgess has a great background too, and will be a big help."

Burgess, who starts his new duties February 4, has worked as a senior auditor for the state of Oklahoma and a senior manager of Internal Audit at Beverly Enterprises in Fort Smith, Ark.

"I'm very excited about coming on board and working with the people who are already here", said Burgess, who was born and raised in Poteau. "I'm looking forward to expanding my experience by working with an independent nation."