WYANDOTTE, OKLAHOMA (March 6, 2025) — Eastern Shawnee Companies (ESC) proudly welcomes Josh Johnston and Chris Tayrien to its Board of Directors. Their appointments 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.
Josh 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, Josh spent a decade in the restaurant and hospitality industry as a multi-unit director. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Arkansas and an MBA from Southeastern Oklahoma State University. Before joining ESC’s Board, he served for three years on ESTO’s Election Board.
Chris 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. Chris is preparing for retirement by mentoring his children to take over daily operations. A graduate of Missouri State University, he values family and enjoys time with his wife of 37 years, three children, and seven grandchildren.
Josh and Chris 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.”
For more information about Eastern Shawnee Companies, visit EasternShawneeCompanies.com