Following a nationwide search, the Bicycle Coalition of Maine has hired Jean Sideris as the organization’s new executive director. Sideris will take over the reins of the non-profit in February 2020.
Sideris brings nearly 20 years of non-profit experience developing and managing advocacy and education campaigns primarily focusing on climate change and clean energy, and most recently served as the deputy director of campaigns in the climate and energy program for the Union of Concerned Scientists, where she worked for the last 15 years.
“The Bicycle Coalition of Maine is an effective and critical advocate for pedestrians and people on bikes, seeking practical solutions to making our streets and pathways safer for all users,” Sideris said. “I’m honored to join the BCM, build on the great work of the organization, and team with bicycle and pedestrian advocates in communities across the state.”
Sideris, an ardent bicycle commuter and road-rider, says she is excited to start connecting with the Coalition’s members, partners, and other supporters throughout Maine, and plans to hit the ground running when she officially starts work on Feb. 25.
“We are thrilled to have Jean’s experience overseeing national-level campaigns,” says BCM Assistant Director Jim Tassé, who noted that Sideris has been a member of the Coalition’s Policy and Legislative Committee since March 2019. “We are especially psyched to have Jean joining as ED at a time when the BCM is crafting its strategic plan for the next five years.”
Sideris’ appointment was the culmination of a search undertaken by members of the BCM’s board of directors and consultants of the Boston-based firm Isaacson, Miller, who contacted nearly 300 individuals over a three-month period.