Managing Director, Sustainable Debt

Job Posting Organization:
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) was founded in 1961 and is a leading global conservation organization dedicated to helping people and nature thrive. With operations in over 100 countries, WWF partners with communities, companies, and governments to protect wildlife, conserve vital habitats, and advance sustainable solutions. The organization is grounded in scientific research and driven by collaboration, focusing on conserving biodiversity, supporting resilient communities, and addressing climate change. WWF has nearly 1 million members in the United States and more than 5 million globally, reflecting its extensive reach and commitment to environmental sustainability.

Job Overview:
The Managing Director (MD) of Sustainable Debt will play a pivotal role within WWF’s Nature Finance and Investment (NFI) team, leading efforts to mobilize financing from debt markets for conservation priorities. This position is responsible for developing and overseeing a global strategy that targets both sovereign and corporate financing opportunities. The MD will lead a team tasked with identifying impactful transaction opportunities, managing engagements from origination to closure, and fostering partnerships with various stakeholders, including governments, corporations, financial institutions, and philanthropic organizations. The role encompasses a range of sustainable debt instruments, including debt conversions and sustainability-linked loans, ensuring that WWF’s contributions are credible and align with organizational priorities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The MD will be accountable for originating, structuring, and scaling WWF's sustainable debt portfolio, ensuring that capital is mobilized effectively for conservation outcomes. Key responsibilities include transaction origination, structuring, negotiation, execution, and oversight of sustainable debt initiatives. The MD will identify and develop high-priority transaction opportunities, build WWF’s reputation in providing science-based KPIs for corporate debt instruments, and manage relationships with stakeholders involved in potential transactions. The role also involves overseeing a growing team, managing the Sustainable Debt Pillar’s budget, and representing WWF in public engagements and sustainable debt forums. Additionally, the MD will lead resource mobilization efforts to secure donor funds and investor capital for deal development and specific debt transactions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong executive presence and influence, demonstrating the ability to engage with senior stakeholders across various sectors. Strategic thinking and execution skills are essential, as is the ability to build trusted partnerships with diverse stakeholders. The MD should have a proven track record in global collaboration, people leadership, and team development, fostering a culture of accountability and growth. Excellent communication skills are required to convey complex financial concepts clearly to diverse audiences. Candidates should also have a strong understanding of innovative financial tools and nature finance instruments, with the ability to negotiate complex financial arrangements.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in Finance is preferred, although degrees in Economics, Business Administration, International Relations, Political Science, or related fields will also be considered. The educational background should reflect a strong foundation in financial principles and practices relevant to the role.

Experience:
A minimum of 15 years of experience in finance, particularly in international finance, debt capital markets, or development finance institutions, is required. Candidates should have substantial experience in private capital, asset management, or related financial sectors, with a demonstrated ability to secure and mobilize financial resources from various sources.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with strong written, verbal, and presentation skills. Proficiency in Spanish or additional languages is desirable but not required, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position may offer international and domestic relocation assistance based on budget availability. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S., as this position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship. Compliance with federal law requires all hired individuals to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. The role may involve travel domestically and internationally, up to approximately 25% of the time. WWF is committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and promotes equal employment opportunities for all qualified individuals.