Owl, a tribal member from the Wolftown community, is a Certified Public Accountant with 20 years of experience in accounting, consulting and leadership. For the past six years, he has been employed with CliftonLarsonAllen, most recently serving as principal of the tribal services practice. Previous experience includes eight years as chief financial officer for the National Congress of American Indians in the Washington, D.C., area. In addition to being a Chartered Global Management Accountant, he holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master’s of accountancy, accounting and business management degree, both from the University of Tennessee – Knoxville.

“I look forward to advancing the path to continued growth and prosperity for the EBCI set by the Kituwah staff and Board,” Owl said. “The success of our various companies will be instrumental in the long-term sustainability and benefit of our people. I am grateful to have the support and commitment of our team and community as we expand our boundaries and opportunities.”

Owl was hired following a “comprehensive” search to fill the position, according to a press release. He will step down from his seat on the KEDB Board, where he has served since the board’s inception, on March 1 to take on the CEO role.

“As we welcome Samuel, we are confident that his unique vision, coupled with his strategic thinking and proven leadership skills, will lead Kituwah LLC into a new era of growth and success,” reads a press release from Kituwah LLC. “His appointment comes after an extensive search process, and it reflects the Board's commitment to driving the company's strategic objectives and maximizing value for our tribe, employees and customers.”

Established in 2018, Kituwah, LLC is an economic development enterprise wholly owned by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Involved in property development, entertainment, hospitality, and professional services. Kituwah, LLC has several subsidiaries including Kituwah Hospitality, Kituwah Marketing and Kituwah Projects.