By By For the Advance
Buford L. Rolin, Tribal Chairman of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, announced today that James T. (Tim) Martin has accepted the position of President of Creek Indian Enterprises.
"Tim Martin has a long history of promoting economic development in Indian Country" Rolin said. "We are lucky to have him come home and use his talents to help the Tribe."
Martin has served as the Executive Director of United South and Eastern Tribes, Inc. (USET) since 1995. USET is an inter-tribal organization comprised of twenty-four federally recognized tribes from twelve states. USET promotes the exchange of information and ideas among the member tribes' various government agencies and other American Indian organization and is considered one of the most prestigious and influential American Indian advocacy groups in the United States.
Prior to his position as Executive Director of USET, Martin served for ten years as the Tribal Administrator for the Poarch Band of Creek Indians in Alabama. As Tribal Administrator, Martin represented the Tribe before Federal, State and local agencies, communicated the overall picture of Tribal operations to the Tribal Council, and provided executive direction to more than 100 professional staff.
Martin says he is excited about the prospect of returning home and working for the Tribe again. He notes that with many reservations located in predominantly rural areas, Tribal economic development has always been challenging; a challenge he readily accepts.
"Tribal Gaming has expanded employment and revenue opportunities for the Tribe considerably. While gaming is important, we must also support our existing enterprises. Most importantly, we must be receptive to new partnerships and new ventures that will allow our Tribe to grow and prosper." Working with the Creek Indian Enterprises Board of Directors and the Tribal Council, Martin believes that there are endless economic opportunities that lie ahead for Poarch Creek.
Martin will assume his position as President of Creek Indian Enterprises on July 24, 2006. He succeeds former CIE President Robert R. McGhee, who recently accepted a position as Tribal Administrator of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians.