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Chief Development Officer
Lgeik’I Eesh
Will Ware Chief Development Officer
“Moving the Tribe forward with projects that support its goal to secure economic sovereignty and create workforce development opportunities for tribal citizens."
The Chief Development Officer (CDO) oversees the Tribal Development branch of Tlingit & Haida which includes current projects such as business and property acquisitions, the land development of the Kowee Creek subdivision, startup of the Tribe’s new construction company Southeast General Contractors, and broad oversight of the Tribal Transportation and Business & Economic Development departments. The CDO works to enhance economic growth and cultural resources while supporting self-sufficiency for our citizens through capitalizing on market conditions, creative approaches to revenue development and strong Executive Management Team support. By building strong partnerships with a variety of industries, the CDO creates economic development opportunities for the Tribe within key business sectors. The CDO also resolves process lags and complex challenges by focusing on best practices that optimize profitability, uphold our tribal values, and work towards the Tribe's long-term goals. In 2020, the CDO provided direct oversight of the following departments and enterprises: Tribal Development Business & Economic Development Tribal Transportation Courier Service Elizabeth Peratrovich Hall Little Eagles and Raven Nest (LEARN) Sacred Grounds Cafés Sacred Shine Auto Detailing Smokehouse Catering Smoke Signals Southeast General Contractors
2020 Highlights
Administered the CARES Small Business Grant program which was funded to provide up to $5,000 per grant to 200 small businesses adversely impacted by COVID-19. Expanded services offered through tribal enterprises: » Sacred Grounds expanded online menu options. » Smokehouse Catering provided to-go full course dinners. Completed overhaul of the Tribe’s online storefront ShopTlingitHaida.com (formerly known as www.ccthita-commerce.com). Hired general contractor and began construction on Allen Court and Haven House. Provided top of the line childcare to Juneau families through LEARN, while maintaining strict safety protocols.
2021 Goals
Acquire large construction contracts through Southeast General Contractors and break ground at Kowee Creek Subdivision. Continue to adapt each enterprise to the “new normal” by expanding pick-up services and online ordering options, and by supporting local food and food sovereignty. Create a Capital Campaign Committee to increase fundraising efforts for the Cultural
Immersion Park. Identify and acquire properties to meet Tlingit & Haida's growth and vision of a centralized campus.
