Application Guide
How to Apply for Chapter Director
at Sierraclub
🏢 About Sierraclub
The Sierra Club is one of the oldest and most influential grassroots environmental organizations in the US, with a strong commitment to intersectional justice—recognizing that climate, racial, economic, and gender justice are interconnected. Working here means being part of a large, unionized, and values-driven team that empowers local chapters and volunteers to drive real change.
About This Role
As the Kentucky Chapter Director, you'll lead the Sierra Club's efforts in Kentucky, working closely with volunteers and staff to advance environmental and climate justice priorities. This role is pivotal in shaping state-level policy, building coalitions, and ensuring the chapter's programs are impactful and inclusive.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve checking in with staff and volunteers, attending virtual coalition meetings, and reviewing campaign progress. You might also draft advocacy materials, meet with community partners, or plan upcoming events, all while balancing administrative duties and strategic planning.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Sierraclub Is Looking For
- Proven leadership experience in nonprofit management, including staff supervision, budget oversight, and strategic planning.
- Deep understanding of environmental and climate issues, with experience in advocacy, organizing, or policy at the state or local level.
- Strong commitment to equity and justice, with demonstrated ability to build partnerships across diverse communities.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, able to inspire volunteers and represent the organization publicly.
📝 Tips for Applying to Sierraclub
Highlight any experience working with volunteer-led boards or committees, as the role involves close partnership with the Executive Committee.
Emphasize your familiarity with Kentucky's political landscape and environmental issues, such as coal, energy transition, or water quality.
Showcase your experience in developing and implementing strategic advocacy campaigns, especially those that involve coalition building.
Mention your ability to work remotely and self-manage, while also being a collaborative team player.
Tailor your resume and cover letter to reflect the Sierra Club's commitment to justice, using specific examples of how you've integrated equity into your work.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
["Your passion for the Sierra Club's mission and its intersectional approach to environmentalism.", 'Specific examples of your leadership in environmental advocacy, including any successful campaigns or policy wins.', "Your experience managing staff and volunteers, and how you've fostered inclusive, collaborative environments.", "Your understanding of Kentucky's unique challenges and opportunities, and how you would approach them."]
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Review the Sierra Club's current strategic priorities and the 'Beyond Coal' campaign, especially its relevance to Kentucky.
- → Read recent news about environmental issues in Kentucky, such as the Tennessee Valley Authority's plans or local coal mine closures.
- → Explore the Kentucky Chapter's website and social media to understand its current campaigns and volunteer structure.
- → Familiarize yourself with the Sierra Club's internal culture, including its unionization and commitment to equity.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't submit a generic cover letter—make sure it's clearly tailored to the Sierra Club and this specific role.
- Avoid emphasizing top-down leadership; the Sierra Club values collaborative, volunteer-driven approaches.
- Don't neglect to mention remote work experience or your ability to work independently; it's a key requirement.
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!