Terry Sweat serves as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) for the Poarch Creek Indians Tribal Government. With more than 20 years of executive leadership experience in Indian Country, Terry brings a service-driven, people-focused approach to government operations. Since joining the Tribe in 2016, he has led efforts to expand direct services, strengthen internal operations, and create long-term strategies that support the well-being and future of Tribal Citizens. His leadership has shaped key Tribal initiatives in health care, emergency response, elder services, and economic growth.
In his role as COO, Terry provides oversight to nine divisions and supports the daily operations of more than 40 programs. He works closely with the Tribal Chair and Council to translate vision into action, focusing on systems that are sustainable, efficient, and grounded in the values of the Tribe. Known for his hands-on style, Terry takes pride in being a responsive and visible leader—whether attending a youth event, checking in with program teams, or guiding major infrastructure projects.
Before coming to Poarch, Terry spent nearly two decades serving the Seminole Tribe of Florida in a variety of executive roles. That experience, paired with his background in social work, business, and organizational leadership, uniquely positioned him to help Poarch navigate a time of growth and opportunity. From managing the Tribe’s nationally recognized COVID-19 response to launching the new Tribal ambulance service and expanding elder care initiatives, Terry remains focused on empowering Tribal Citizens and Tribal Government staff with the resources they need to succeed.
For more information contact: Teresa Franklin, Administrative Assistant at (251) 368-9136 ext. 2202
Terry Sweat was born and raised in Live Oak, Florida, in a family grounded in faith, education, and public service. His parents, both educators, emphasized humility, respect, and the value of hard work—principles that have guided Terry throughout his life. He began his career in Indian Country with the Seminole Tribe of Florida, where he served in multiple leadership roles supporting education, family services, and tribal administration.
In 2016, Terry joined the Poarch Creek Indians, initially as Chief of Staff. He transitioned into the role of Chief Operating Officer in 2021, helping shape the Tribe’s organizational growth. Since then, he has led significant projects including the opening of the Perdido River Meats facility, development of a memory care feasibility study, expansion of behavioral health services, and strategic planning for education, transportation, and wellness.
As Chief Operating Officer, Terry oversees the work of 11 direct reports and manages a wide range of Tribal services, including Health, Education, Housing, Family Services, Emergency Services, and more. His leadership is grounded in collaboration, accountability, and a strong belief in servant leadership. He is committed to empowering Tribal Citizens, developing emerging leaders, and removing barriers that prevent progress.
His role also includes internal strategic planning and government-wide coordination. Terry led Poarch’s COVID-19 response team, which earned recognition due to its proactive testing, communication, and continuity of services. He remains focused on organizational health and long-term planning that reflects the Tribe’s sovereignty and self-determination.
Terry’s vision centers around sustainable growth that honors the Tribe’s past and secures its future. He believes in building strong systems that provide real impact—especially in the areas of healthcare, elder support, infrastructure, and education.
He is currently supporting long-term planning efforts like the Tribe’s 10-year strategic plan and expanded leadership opportunities for Tribal Citizens. He encourages open dialogue, listening sessions, and idea sharing to ensure that Tribal Government remains connected to the people it serves. For Terry, success is measured not only by outcomes but by how well we prepare the next generation.
Terry makes it a priority to stay connected to the people. Whether he is visiting the Fred L McGhee Early Learning Center (FLMLC) or attending a Creek stomp dance, he believes the strength of the Tribe lies in its community and cultural roots. He works closely with the Cultural Department, Museum, and Language Program to ensure that culture is woven into the work of every division he oversees.
His leadership also supports expanded elder services, community education, and opportunities for Tribal Citizens to be involved in shaping services and solutions that meet their needs. He believes in accessibility, transparency, and inclusion.
Terry holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, a Master of Social Work, a Master of Business Administration, and a Specialist Degree in Organizational Leadership. Outside of work, he enjoys cooking, traveling, and spending time with his children. He is also an avid reader and enjoys staying active.
He credits his parents and grandparents as his greatest influences and encourages future leaders to lead with integrity, listen well, and always stay grounded. His philosophy is simple: work hard, serve others, and leave things better than you found them.
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For Tribal Bill Pay login assistance, contact Candy Byrd at (251) 368-9136 ext 2006 or cbyrd@pci-nsn.gov
The Roundhouse is accessible to Tribal Citizens and Tribal Government Employees only. For login assistance, please email theroundhouse@pci-nsn.gov or call Sharon Delmar at (251) 368-9136 ext 2216
