Director, Nature Markets and Nbs Development

Job Posting Organization:
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is one of the world’s leading conservation organizations, dedicated to protecting the world's most vulnerable species and ecosystems. 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 conservation efforts, including climate change, wildlife protection, and sustainable development, aiming to create a world where people and nature can thrive together.

Job Overview:
The Director of Nature Markets and NbS Development will play a crucial role in advancing the organization's mission by leading the development of nature-based solutions (NbS) projects. This position requires a deep understanding of market dynamics and the ability to engage with various stakeholders, including investors and market participants. The Director will be responsible for identifying and assessing the feasibility of NbS interventions, designing bankable projects, and managing a growing portfolio of NbS initiatives. The role demands innovative problem-solving skills, strategic leadership, and the ability to work collaboratively across teams and geographies to achieve environmental, financial, and social outcomes.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Identify and assess the feasibility of NbS interventions across various landscapes and priority areas.
• Lead the design and development of bankable NbS projects.
• Engage with market participants to identify opportunities and promote WWF's NbS initiatives.
• Develop proposals for offtakers and investors.
• Manage an emerging portfolio of NbS projects.
• Execute complex strategies across multiple geographies and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with NFI leadership and teams to enhance market engagement with NbS buyers and investors.
• Refine WWF’s strategy for mobilizing finance through carbon markets and nature-related markets.
• Assess opportunities for broader mobilization of private finance through nature markets. 1
• Prepare and present detailed project and investment documentation for stakeholders. 1
• Represent NFI in meetings related to carbon markets and finance. 1
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum of 10 years of professional experience, with substantial NbS transactional experience from a project developer or investor perspective.
• Graduate degree in economics, business administration, or finance is strongly preferred.
• Equivalent transactional expertise developed through professional experience is also highly valued.
• Proven experience with various NbS project types or transaction structures in developing countries.
• Deep knowledge of carbon markets, including project development, due diligence, pricing, and transaction structuring.
• Superior financial and business analysis skills, particularly in evaluating investment feasibility, risk, and return for NbS finance structures.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to present arguments clearly to management and partners.

Educational Background:
A graduate degree in economics, business administration, or finance is strongly preferred for this position. Candidates with equivalent transactional expertise developed through professional experience will also be considered. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in financial analysis, market dynamics, and project management relevant to nature-based solutions.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 10 years of professional experience, with a focus on nature-based solutions and transactional experience. This experience should ideally include working with various NbS project types and transaction structures, particularly in developing countries. Familiarity with carbon markets and the ability to navigate complex financial landscapes are essential for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Proficiency in additional languages such as Spanish, French, or Portuguese is considered an advantage, as it enhances communication with diverse stakeholders and partners in various regions.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Washington DC and offers a salary range of $124,000 - $178,30

• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S., and this position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship. The role may require an estimated 15-25% travel to developing countries. WWF promotes equal employment opportunities for all qualified individuals, regardless of age, race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, or veteran status.