Director, Nature Finance and Investments

Job Posting Organization:
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) was founded in 1961 and has since become one of the world's leading conservation organizations. With a mission to help people and nature thrive, WWF operates in over 100 countries, collaborating with communities, companies, and governments to protect wildlife, conserve vital habitats, and promote 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 boasts nearly 1 million members in the United States and over 5 million globally, reflecting its extensive reach and commitment to environmental conservation.

Job Overview:
The Director, Nature Finance and Investments will serve as a pivotal member of the Nature Finance & Investments (NFI) team at WWF. This role is critical in leading the organization's efforts to serve as Impact Advisors to external asset managers, with the goal of developing and influencing significant capital flows that support nature conservation. The Director will be responsible for the strategic direction, daily execution, and overall management of NFI's asset manager strategy. This includes identifying partnership opportunities in nature finance, engaging with key stakeholders, and accelerating WWF's role in financing sustainable investments. The position requires a strategic leader who can connect nature goals with investment opportunities and partnership development, ensuring that WWF's objectives translate into tangible outcomes for conservation efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director will design and oversee key elements of the asset manager strategy, including setting WWF's goals and objectives, developing an implementation model, and creating a pipeline of partnership opportunities. Responsibilities include negotiating partnerships with potential collaborators, identifying and pursuing new asset manager opportunities across various sectors such as sustainable infrastructure, regenerative agriculture, carbon finance, and aquaculture. The Director will lead deal diligence, prepare partnership recommendations, and conduct impact analyses to present to senior management and governance bodies. Additionally, the role involves forging relationships with external partners, representing WWF at conferences and workshops, and collaborating with various teams within WWF to advance integrated nature finance strategies. The Director will also craft communications to showcase WWF's thought leadership in nature finance and ensure accurate reporting and budgeting within WWF Impact management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree with at least 10 years of relevant work experience, or a Graduate degree with a minimum of 8 years of experience. A strong background in the financial services sector is essential, including experience in private equity, venture capital, impact investing, conservation finance, and emerging markets. Applicants should demonstrate experience in developing and evaluating investment strategies, conducting due diligence, and managing portfolios. Familiarity with multilateral and bilateral finance institutions is preferred, as is sector expertise in WWF's priority areas such as regenerative agriculture, blue economy, sustainable infrastructure, or forestry. Strong written and verbal communication skills, financial modeling proficiency, and the ability to analyze complex problems are crucial for success in this role.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree is required, with a preference for candidates holding a Graduate degree. The educational background should be in fields related to finance, environmental science, or a related discipline that supports the responsibilities of the position.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of work experience for candidates with a Bachelor's degree, or 8 years for those with a Graduate degree. Experience in the financial services sector, particularly in areas relevant to conservation finance and investment strategies, is essential. Candidates should have a proven track record of developing investment strategies and managing partnerships within the finance sector.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and competency in a second language, ideally Spanish or Portuguese, is considered a significant advantage. Strong communication skills are essential for engaging with diverse stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position may offer domestic relocation assistance based on budget availability. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States, 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 U.S. Additionally, the role is eligible for domestic relocation within the United States. WWF promotes equal employment opportunities for all qualified individuals, regardless of age, race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.