Jerilyn Johnson

Jerilyn Johnson
Jerilyn Johnson is the Chief of Staff of Greenpeace USA, a prominent global advocate for environmental conservation and sustainability. With a dedicated focus on fostering equity and justice, Johnson has made an indelible mark in human resources and organizational development. Beyond her role at Greenpeace, Johnson is a co-founder of a Justice and Equity Community of Practice, a platform for nonprofit leaders looking to enhance equity and inclusion within their organizations. Johnson's career in human resources and organizational development spans over 15 years, covering an array of sectors, including government agencies and nonprofits.
An unrelenting pursuit of knowledge and expertise marked Johnson’s journey towards her current position. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Economics from The University of Texas, setting the stage for future contributions to the field. This foundation in economics instilled in her a unique perspective on human capital management and its role in organizational success. Subsequently, Johnson continued her educational journey by obtaining a Master of Science and MBA in Finance and Human Capital Management from the University of Maryland. Her dual-degree approach bridged the worlds of financial acumen and the intricacies of human resource management, providing a well-rounded understanding of the business landscape. In her commitment to excellence, Johnson pursued advanced designations in Human Resources, including SHRM-CP and SPHR, underscoring her dedication to maintaining the highest professional standards. Her pursuit of excellence extended to diversity and inclusion, as she achieved certification as a Certified Diversity Executive.
Johnson’s career in human resources and organizational development spans over 15 years, covering an array of sectors, including government agencies and nonprofits. Her journey commenced with positions at the Internal Revenue Service, the US Census Bureau, and the DC Housing Authority, where she honed her skills and gained invaluable experience. Johnson’s passion for justice and equity led her to join the dynamic team at Greenpeace USA. Over the past decade, she has spearheaded a people-powered strategy that harmonizes seamlessly with the organization’s objectives. Her contributions extend to employee and labor relations, talent acquisition, and benefit plan design and administration, all with an unwavering commitment to creating a diverse and talented workforce nationwide. At Greenpeace USA, Johnson wears multiple hats. As the Chief of Staff to the Executive Director, Johnson plays a pivotal role in steering the organization toward success and sustainability. With a strategic vision and a deep commitment to justice and equity, Jerilyn’s responsibilities encompass a broad spectrum of initiatives to enhance the organization’s effectiveness, well-being, and future growth. Her role is characterized by close collaboration with executive and senior leadership and the Board to drive impactful change and propel the organization forward. Her leadership is characterized by a harmonious blend of operational acumen and long-term strategic vision, always focusing on embedding justice and promoting equity. She strives to unlock the full potential of every individual, fostering an environment where diversity thrives. Beyond her role at Greenpeace, Johnson is a co-founder of a Justice and Equity Community of Practice, a platform for nonprofit leaders looking to enhance equity and inclusion within their organizations. She also serves as a Pay Equity Advisor for 81 cents, further exemplifying her commitment to justice and fairness in the workplace. Johnson’s dedication extends to empowering the next generation of leaders. She offers career development services through one-on-one coaching, group workshops, and educational seminars at colleges, universities, and nonprofit organizations, particularly focusing on underrepresented individuals within the progressive nonprofit sector. Jerilyn Johnson’s remarkable journey has made her a trailblazer in human resources and organizational development. Her strategic mindset, unwavering dedication to equity, and impressive educational background make her a driving force in advancing the mission of Greenpeace USA and fostering inclusive, just, and effective workplaces.
Green Peace. 2023. Jerilyn Johnson. https://www.greenpeace.org/usa/bios/jerilyn-johnson/
Jerilyn Johnson. n.d. Home [LinkedIn Page]. LinkedIn. Retrieved October 19, 2023 from https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerilyn-johnson/
Planet Women. 2021. Jerilyn Johnson. https://www.planetwomen.org/jerilyn-johnson