Program Officer (PO), Ocean Markets and Finance (OMF)

Job Posting Organization:
World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is one of the world’s leading conservation organizations, dedicated to protecting the world's most vulnerable species and their habitats. Established in 1961, WWF operates in over 100 countries and has a global network of more than 5 million supporters. The organization focuses on various environmental issues, including climate change, wildlife conservation, and sustainable development, aiming to create a world where people live in harmony with nature.

Job Overview:
The Program Officer (PO) for Ocean Markets and Finance (OMF) will play a crucial role in supporting the initiatives of the Ocean Markets and Finance program. This position involves working closely with the Manager of Blue Finance and other senior team members to engage companies and financial institutions involved in key ocean sectors such as seafood, shipping, offshore wind, and coastal tourism. The primary goal is to minimize negative environmental impacts and promote sustainable practices within these sectors. The Program Officer will also focus on developing innovative financing mechanisms to support conservation objectives in ocean environments. This hybrid role requires a minimum of two days per week in the WWF Washington, DC headquarters office and involves project management, coordination, and research support for various projects, particularly those related to the Blue Finance Portfolio.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Program Officer will be responsible for several key areas:

• Transformational Finance Project Management: Support financial institution engagement on sustainable blue finance, including conducting research, developing reports, creating PowerPoint presentations, and managing webinars.
• Blended and Innovative Finance Project Management: Assist in managing the team’s portfolio of projects in priority seascapes and countries, coordinating with other WWF teams and offices.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Work collaboratively with various WWF teams to advance ocean-related corporate partnerships, manage stakeholder coordination, and support team operations.
• General Administrative Support: Perform additional duties as assigned, ensuring effective communication and coordination within the team and with external partners.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science/Management, Business, Finance, Economics, Sustainable Development, or a related field. A minimum of 4 years of professional experience is required, or an advanced degree with at least 2 years of experience. Candidates should have a strong desire to learn about corporate sustainability and sustainable finance, as well as knowledge of relevant platforms and regulations. Strong project management, organizational, research, and analytical skills are essential, along with excellent written and verbal communication abilities. Familiarity with Microsoft Office software is required, and experience working with private sector actors on sustainability is essential.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Environmental Science, Business, Finance, or Sustainable Development is required. An advanced degree is preferred and can substitute for some experience. Candidates should have a solid understanding of the corporate sustainability landscape and be eager to learn about innovative financing mechanisms in the ocean space.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 4 years of program or professional experience, or 2 years with an advanced degree. Experience working with private sector actors on sustainability initiatives is essential, and familiarity with the blue economy is a plus. Candidates should demonstrate strong project management skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

Languages:
While no specific languages are mandated, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not required.

Additional Notes:
This is a hybrid position requiring a minimum of two days a week in the WWF Washington, DC office. The salary range for this position is between $69,000 and $86,10

• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. and this position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship. A cover letter is required for consideration, and due to the high volume of applications, inquiries via phone will not be responded to.