Director, Nature Finance and Investments

Job Posting Organization:
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) was founded in 1961 and has grown to 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 crucial for leading the strategy and execution of WWF's asset manager strategy, which aims to influence significant capital flows towards nature conservation. The Director will be responsible for identifying partnership opportunities in nature finance, engaging with key stakeholders, and accelerating WWF's role in sustainable investment. This position requires a strategic leader who can connect nature goals with investment opportunities, ensuring that WWF's objectives are met through effective partnership development and stakeholder engagement. The Director will also represent WWF at external events and collaborate with various teams to advance integrated nature finance strategies, making this a highly impactful role within the organization.

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 asset managers, identifying new partnership opportunities across sectors such as sustainable infrastructure and regenerative agriculture, and leading due diligence processes. The Director will prepare recommendations and impact analyses for senior management, forge relationships with external partners, and represent WWF at conferences and workshops. Additionally, the role involves collaborating with conservation teams and ensuring accurate reporting and budgeting for WWF Impact.

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, particularly in areas such as private equity, venture capital, impact investing, and conservation finance. Applicants should have demonstrated experience in developing investment strategies, conducting due diligence, and managing portfolios. Familiarity with multilateral finance institutions and sector expertise in WWF's priority areas is preferred. Strong written and verbal communication skills, financial modeling proficiency, and the ability to analyze complex problems are also required. A second language, particularly Spanish or Portuguese, is a significant advantage.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required, with a preference for candidates holding a Graduate degree. The educational background should align with the financial services sector, conservation finance, or related fields, ensuring that candidates have the necessary theoretical knowledge to support their practical experience.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of work experience in the financial services sector, or 8 years with a Graduate degree. Candidates should have a proven track record in investment strategy development, due diligence, and partnership negotiations, particularly within the context of conservation finance and sustainable investments. Experience working with multilateral finance institutions is highly desirable, as is familiarity with WWF's priority areas and emerging markets.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with proficiency in a second language, ideally Spanish or Portuguese, considered a significant plus. This linguistic capability will enhance communication with diverse stakeholders and partners across various regions.

Additional Notes:
This position may offer domestic relocation assistance based on budget availability. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S., as this role 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 position 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.