Senior Specialist, NbS Project Development and Finance

Job Posting Organization:
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is a leading global conservation organization established in 1961, dedicated to preserving the world's biological diversity and reducing humanity's ecological footprint. With a mission to conserve nature and reduce the most pressing threats to the diversity of life on Earth, WWF operates in over 100 countries and has more than 5 million supporters worldwide. The organization focuses on various environmental issues, including climate change, wildlife conservation, and sustainable development, and works collaboratively with governments, businesses, and communities to achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The Senior Specialist, NbS Project Development and Finance, is a pivotal role within WWF's Nature Finance and Investment (NFI) team, which is dedicated to mobilizing large-scale financing for nature through innovative financial mechanisms. This position is designed for an individual who is passionate about advancing nature-based solutions (NbS) and has a strong background in project finance and development. The Senior Specialist will work closely with deal leads to develop and implement high-quality commercial NbS projects that align with WWF's conservation priorities. This role requires a blend of technical expertise in financial modeling, project structuring, and a deep understanding of carbon markets and nature-based finance. The successful candidate will be instrumental in driving the strategic priority of mobilizing diversified nature finance to support WWF's mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Specialist will be responsible for a variety of key tasks, including but not limited to: supporting NMU deal leads in the origination, design, and development of carbon and other commercial NbS products; advising deal teams on carbon project development and market methodologies; building and maintaining financial models to evaluate deal structures and investment returns; collaborating with project partners and WWF legal specialists to optimize project costs and governance; conducting assessments of projects led by other organizations focusing on climate, social, and biodiversity outcomes; managing project delivery and stakeholder engagement; and supporting broader strategy development and implementation, including market research and fundraising efforts. The role may also involve additional duties as assigned by management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree with at least 6 years of relevant experience, or an advanced degree with a minimum of 3 years of experience. Required qualifications include project development experience, particularly with carbon or nature-based projects, familiarity with carbon market mechanisms and standards, superior financial modeling and business analysis skills, and excellent communication abilities. Experience in developing investment memos and pitch decks is also essential. The candidate should be willing to travel up to 20% of the time and may be open to extended missions for project development and relationship building.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required, with a preference for candidates holding advanced degrees. The educational background should ideally include coursework or training related to environmental science, finance, economics, or a related discipline that supports the understanding of nature-based solutions and project finance.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in project development, particularly in the context of carbon or nature-based projects. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in roles that involve developing baselines, feasibility studies, and project design documents (PDDs). Experience in marketing or sales related to carbon or NbS projects is also beneficial, as is familiarity with carbon credit standards and methodologies.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while proficiency in Spanish or Indonesian is preferred. The ability to communicate effectively in multiple languages will enhance collaboration with diverse stakeholders and partners in various regions.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time, limited-term role for two years, with the possibility of extension. It is a hybrid position requiring in-office work two days a week in Washington DC. The role is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship or relocation assistance. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. and will need to verify their identity and eligibility upon hire. WWF promotes a culture of inclusion and equal employment opportunities for all qualified individuals.