Senior Vice President, Conservation and Chief Conservation Officer

Job Posting Organization:
WWF-Canada is a leading conservation organization dedicated to protecting the world's most vulnerable species and ecosystems. Established with a mission to create a Canada with abundant wildlife where nature and people thrive, WWF-Canada operates with a commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The organization works in partnership with various stakeholders, including Indigenous communities, to address pressing conservation challenges. With a diverse team of professionals, WWF-Canada is involved in numerous initiatives aimed at promoting biodiversity and ecological resilience across the country. The organization is currently in the third and final phase of its 10-year Strategic Plan, Regenerate Canada, which focuses on innovative conservation strategies and collaborative efforts to enhance the natural environment.

Job Overview:
The Senior Vice President, Conservation and Chief Conservation Officer is a pivotal role within WWF-Canada, responsible for leading the organization’s ambitious conservation goals. This position requires a visionary and strategic leader who can navigate complex conservation landscapes and deliver cutting-edge analysis on emerging threats and opportunities. The successful candidate will work closely with the Senior Management Team to ensure effective planning, implementation, and collaboration across various divisions within WWF-Canada, as well as with external partners and the WWF International Network. The role emphasizes the importance of supporting Indigenous-led conservation priorities and fostering a culture of accountability and excellence in design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and execution. The Chief Conservation Officer will also be expected to remain informed about new conservation approaches and practices, ensuring that WWF-Canada remains at the forefront of conservation efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Vice President, Conservation and Chief Conservation Officer include leading the development and implementation of WWF-Canada’s high-impact conservation strategy aimed at enhancing biodiversity and ecological resilience. The role involves overseeing the monitoring and reporting of measurable outcomes, ensuring accountability in program and project design, and fostering partnerships for effective execution. The Chief Conservation Officer will provide timely guidance to the CEO regarding emerging conservation opportunities and government engagement. Additionally, the position requires collaboration with senior leadership across various divisions, maintaining relationships with peers in the WWF International Network, and mentoring a high-performing team. The successful candidate will exemplify WWF-Canada’s core values of courage, integrity, respect, and collaboration while driving the organization’s conservation agenda forward.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for this position must possess a minimum of 15 years of experience in conservation, with at least 8 years in leadership roles. A deep understanding of various facets of conservation, such as stewardship, wildlife habitats, ecosystem restoration, and conservation innovation, is essential. Experience working directly with Indigenous leaders and communities on priority conservation issues is highly valued. The successful candidate must demonstrate accountability for leading a multi-year strategic vision and managing budgets effectively. Exceptional problem-solving and communication skills are required, along with practical experience in leading and managing teams towards clear outcomes. Familiarity with operating within a global network model is considered a strong asset.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for this position, typically including advanced degrees in environmental science, conservation biology, natural resource management, or related fields. Candidates should have a strong foundation in conservation principles and practices, as well as an understanding of the socio-political context surrounding conservation efforts in Canada and globally.

Experience:
The position requires extensive experience in conservation, with a minimum of 15 years in the field, including significant leadership experience. Candidates should have a proven track record of developing and executing conservation strategies, managing teams, and collaborating with diverse stakeholders, including Indigenous communities and government entities. Experience in budget management and accountability for strategic outcomes is also necessary.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in another language relevant to WWF-Canada's areas of work, such as French, Swampy Cree, Inuktitut, or a Central Coast Salish language, is considered an asset. This multilingual capability will enhance communication and collaboration with diverse communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a hybrid role, allowing for work from WWF-Canada offices in Toronto, Ottawa, or Montreal. The starting salary for this role ranges from $190,000 to $210,000 annually, commensurate with related experience and skills. The successful candidate will be required to travel nationally to regions where WWF-Canada operates and may occasionally attend global meetings once or twice a year. The application deadline is September 1, 2026, but candidates are encouraged to apply early as applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis. WWF-Canada is committed to diversity and accessibility in its hiring process and encourages applications from historically disadvantaged and marginalized groups.