Editor in Chief

Summary

Join the Sierra Club as their Editor in Chief for Sierra Magazine and lead the strategic and creative direction of this flagship publication. This role requires a blend of editorial vision and organizational leadership to execute a reimagined business plan, positioning the magazine as a leading voice in environmental journalism. The Editor in Chief will develop and execute editorial strategy across print and digital channels, drive revenue and engagement goals, advance strategic partnerships, and supervise editorial operations. Maintaining journalistic integrity while aligning editorial priorities with the Sierra Club's mission is crucial. This position requires a deep commitment to equity, environmental justice, and movement building. The successful candidate will guide the magazine's transition to a multiplatform storytelling brand, expanding its reach and impact.

Requirements

• Visionary Editorial Leadership. Proven ability to lead editorial teams and multi-platform content strategy in a mission-driven or media environment, with a record of growing audience and impact across platforms
• Strategic Collaboration. Skilled at building partnerships and leading cross-functional initiatives that align editorial content with organizational goals (advocacy, membership, fundraising, or revenue)
• Strong Management Skills. Demonstrated success managing teams, fostering inclusive and innovative culture, managing complex and competing priorities, and developing talent within editorial and creative environments
• Digital & Print Expertise. Deep experience in both traditional and digital publishing, with fluency in digital storytelling, audience development, SEO, and data-informed decision-making
• Environmental & Social Justice Literacy. A strong understanding of the intersections between environmental issues, climate justice, equity, and advocacy. Demonstrates a robust understanding of using storytelling for movement building
• Committed to Evolution. You are committed to continuously deepening your understanding of systems of oppression and shifting behaviors as appropriate
• Uplifting & Additive. You bring a constructive approach, can-do attitude, and authentic kindness. You see problems as opportunities for learning and growth

Responsibilities

• Lead Editorial Vision & Execution. Develops and executes the editorial strategy across print and digital channels. Anchors content in the magazine’s core pillars: advocacy-driven journalism, outdoors for all, conservation with a conscience, people-powered insight, and accessible truths. As needed, contributes to the writing, editing and development of content
• Drive Revenue & Engagement Goals. Collaborates with Communications, Advancement, Membership Growth, Green Ventures, and Digital teams to build the magazine’s momentum/capacity for revenue generation from digital subscriptions, member conversions, events, and mission-aligned advertising
• Advance Strategic Partnerships. Works across departments—including Chapters, Outings, Creative Studio, and the Grassroots Network—to elevate community voices, drive localized content, and integrate storytelling with advocacy and engagement goals
• Supervise Editorial Operations. Manages a team of editors, writers, designers, and freelancers. Oversees editorial calendar, budget, and production timelines. Upholds editorial standards and leads innovation in narrative formats and distribution strategies.Negotiates contracts
• Champion Editorial Independence & Integrity. Maintains journalistic integrity while aligning editorial priorities with the broader mission and goals of the Sierra Club. Serves as a thought leader and public ambassador for Sierra Magazine
• Expand Reach & Digital Transformation. Guides the transition from a legacy print product to a multiplatform storytelling brand. Leverages SEO, social media, email, and new digital formats (e.g., podcasts, newsletters) to grow audience and impact

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience leading a media transformation (e.g., print to digital)
• A track record of launching new editorial products (e.g., newsletters, verticals, podcasts)
• Experience with grassroots organizing, membership-based models and mission-aligned publications
• Experience with leading national print magazines and digital audiences

Benefits

• $137,000 - $137,000 a year
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• A retirement savings 401(k) plan
• Paid time off
• Opportunities for professional development