WYANDOTTE, OK – Eastern Shawnee Companies (ESC) has appointed Josh Johnston and Chris Tayrien to its Board of Directors. Their positions mark an important milestone in ESC’s growth, as both are enrolled members of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma (ESTO) and bring a wealth of expertise to the organization.
Johnston is a private banker at MidFirst Bank in Tulsa, OK, specializing in tailored financial solutions for high net-worth individuals and businesses. With a focus on commercial real estate transactions, jumbo mortgages, and custom home construction financing, he brings valuable financial acumen to the Board. Prior to banking, Johnston spent a decade in the restaurant and hospitality industry as a multi-unit director. Before joining ESC’s Board, he served for three years on ESTO’s Election Board.
Tayrien is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 25 years of business leadership experience in the Kansas City Metro area. He played a key role in scaling two companies from startup to over $10 million in annual revenue and now applies that expertise in his own firm, TanTyTum Contractors, which works with local and federal government entities. Under his leadership, the company has grown by more than 700% in the past three years.
Johnston and Tayrien succeed Chad Kelly and Karen Allen, who played a vital role in guiding the Board through the company’s critical startup phase and served until the completion of their terms. They join existing Board Members Audrey Gardner, Robert Bluejacket, and Skylar Wallace, all of whom are enrolled members of the ESTO. Together, this Board represents a strong foundation of tribal leadership and diverse expertise, guiding Eastern Shawnee Companies toward continued growth and success.
“As Eastern Shawnee Companies continues to expand, we are honored to have Josh and Chris bring their financial and business expertise to our Board,” said Katie Summy, Director of Strategic Initiatives. “Their leadership will help drive our mission forward while ensuring that our economic growth continues to benefit the tribe and its members.”
Eastern Shawnee Companies is a board-governed holding company that represents a collection of tribally-owned small businesses providing professional services. As a wholly owned subsidiary of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma, ESC is committed to enhancing and supporting tribal sovereignty while delivering sustainable solutions for a diverse range of tribal, federal, government, and private clients.