Tennessee is long. Anyone who has ever driven the full stretch of Interstate 40 knows that you can listen to an entire audio series, question your life choices, stop for snacks twice, and still find yourself within the same state borders. Because our state is vast and each grand division has its own distinct character, doing meaningful statewide work requires being rooted directly in local communities. That is why Tennessee Nonprofit Network is searching for our next East Tennessee Regional Director.
Tennessee Nonprofit Network is not your average state association. Over the last few years, we have grown at a remarkable pace, rapidly expanding into one of the largest state nonprofit associations in the country. We work alongside thousands of organizations across Tennessee to strengthen leadership, expand public policy advocacy, deliver high-impact training, and share research that moves the entire sector forward.
To keep that momentum going in the eastern third of the state, we need someone living in the East Tennessee ecosystem. You cannot effectively serve Chattanooga, Knoxville, the Tri-Cities, and every surrounding valley from a desk hundreds of miles away. East Tennessee has unique community dynamics, dedicated leaders, and organizations that deserve an energetic regional champion living right down the road.
As the East Tennessee Regional Director, you will serve as the lead connector, facilitator, and advocate for the region. On any given day, you might be facilitating a workshop, organizing a regional convening, helping local leaders navigate organizational assessments, or sharing the latest advocacy updates and Standards for Excellence resources. You will also be out on the road connecting with prospective and current members, building regional partnerships, and making sure East Tennessee perspectives shape our statewide priorities.
Who Should Apply
We are seeking a collaborative, creative professional with at least three years of nonprofit, programming, or project management experience who already resides in East Tennessee. You should enjoy bringing people together, feel comfortable speaking in front of diverse groups, and be ready for regular travel throughout the region.
While we welcome applications from across the sector, priority will be given to candidates who are already active participants in Tennessee Nonprofit Network programming and are familiar with what we do. If you have taken part in our learning cohorts, attended our statewide convenings, or utilized our resources, you already understand our culture and our approach to supporting community leaders.
Please note: If you are a Community Action Council member and want to apply, you must immediately resign from the council via email to President & CEO Kevin Dean. You will not be eligible to return to the CAC until July 1, 2027.
The Details and How to Apply
This is a full-time, exempt position with a salary of $70,000 annually. Tennessee Nonprofit Network offers 80% employer-paid medical coverage, optional employee-paid dental and vision plans, a 401(k) with up to a 2% employer match, generous holiday schedules, flexible PTO, and dedicated funding for your ongoing professional growth.
To apply, email your cover letter and resume to Teresa Cheeks Wilson at tcheekswilson@tnnonprofits.org.
Applications must be submitted by September 10. Please, no phone calls.