Senior Specialist, NbS Project Development and Finance

Job Posting Organization:
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is a leading global conservation organization founded in 1961, dedicated to preserving the world's biological diversity and ensuring sustainable development. 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 resource management, and employs thousands of individuals committed to these causes.

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 substantial financing for nature through innovative financial mechanisms. This position is hybrid, requiring in-office presence in Washington DC for two days a week, and is a limited-term role with a duration of two years, with the possibility of extension. The Senior Specialist will play a crucial role in advancing WWF's strategic priorities by developing and executing nature-based solutions (NbS) projects that align with the organization's conservation goals. The role involves collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to create high-quality NbS projects that can attract commercial financing, thereby supporting WWF's mission to protect the environment and promote sustainable practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Specialist will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including supporting deal leads in the origination, design, and development of carbon and other commercial NbS products, with a particular emphasis on generating carbon removal credits. The role requires advising deal teams on carbon project development, market methodologies, and standards, as well as broader market expectations. The Senior Specialist will build and maintain financial models to assess deal structures, optimize costs, and evaluate investment returns for NbS projects. Additionally, the position involves working closely with project partners and WWF's legal and operational teams to enhance project financing and production costs while maximizing community benefits. The Senior Specialist will also conduct thorough assessments of projects led by other organizations, focusing on climate, social, and biodiversity outcomes, and manage project delivery while engaging with multiple stakeholders across various projects. Other responsibilities may include supporting broader strategy development, market research, fundraising efforts, and market outreach.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree with at least 5 years of relevant experience, or an advanced degree with a minimum of 3 years of experience in project development, particularly with carbon or nature-based projects. Experience in developing baselines, feasibility studies, and project design documents (PDDs) is highly desirable. Familiarity with carbon market mechanisms and standards, such as VM0047 and Isometric's Reforestation Protocol, is also required. Superior financial modeling and business analysis skills are essential, particularly in evaluating investment feasibility, risk, and returns for NbS or nature-related finance structures. Excellent written and oral communication skills are necessary for presenting analyses clearly to management, partners, and funders. Experience in developing investment memos and pitch decks is preferred, along with a willingness to travel up to 20% of the time 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 in finance, environmental science, or related disciplines. The educational background should provide a strong foundation in project development, finance, and environmental policy, equipping candidates with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of nature-based solutions and financing.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in project development, particularly in carbon or nature-based projects. This experience could include roles as a developer, consultant, or investor, with a focus on developing baselines, feasibility studies, and project design documents. Candidates with direct field experience in various NbS project types, especially in emerging markets and developing economies, will be preferred. A strong network with carbon project developers, financiers, and buyers is also advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while proficiency in Spanish or Indonesian is considered a valuable asset. The ability to communicate effectively in multiple languages will enhance collaboration with diverse stakeholders and facilitate project development in various regions.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a limited-term contract lasting two years, with the potential for extensions based on performance and organizational needs. The Senior Specialist will work in a hybrid environment, requiring in-office attendance in Washington DC for two days a week. The role does not offer sponsorship for employment visas or relocation assistance. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States and will be required to verify their identity and eligibility to work upon hire. 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.