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About the Organization
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is one of the world’s leading conservation organizations, dedicated to protecting biodiversity, preserving natural habitats, and addressing the most pressing environmental challenges globally.
WWF works across continents to build sustainable solutions that benefit both people and nature, with a strong emphasis on community-led conservation and long-term environmental impact.
Role Overview
The Senior Director, Africa provides strategic and programmatic leadership for WWF’s Wildlife Program across the African continent, with a particular focus on Southern Africa and the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA).
- Job Title: Senior Director, Africa
- Location: Washington, DC, United States
- Closing Date: Not Specified
- Contract Type: Full-Time
- Salary Range: $144,000 – $206,900 per year
- Organization: World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
- Job Reference: 26055
This senior leadership role is responsible for driving large-scale conservation initiatives, mobilizing resources, building partnerships, and ensuring impactful programme delivery across WWF’s Africa portfolio.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Programme Oversight
- Lead the Wildlife Team’s conservation strategy across Africa
- Define and drive impact in biodiversity, species protection, and community-based conservation
- Develop long-term strategies aligned with WWF’s global priorities
- Balance short-term deliverables with long-term conservation goals
Southern Africa Priority Place Programme
- Lead WWF’s Southern Africa Priority Place Programme
- Coordinate cross-functional and cross-regional teams
- Define clear outcomes and measurable impact targets
- Guide programme design and implementation for maximum conservation impact
Partnerships, Communications & Fundraising
- Build and manage partnerships with governments, NGOs, communities, and private sector stakeholders
- Represent WWF at high-level events, meetings, and global forums
- Lead fundraising efforts and contribute to resource mobilization strategies
- Engage policymakers and institutions to advance conservation priorities
Team Leadership & Management
- Lead and develop a diverse, distributed team
- Set performance goals and monitor progress
- Provide coaching, mentorship, and professional development
- Foster a collaborative and inclusive team culture
Innovation & Problem Solving
- Develop innovative solutions to complex conservation challenges
- Address political, social, and environmental issues impacting programmes
- Promote knowledge sharing and best practices across teams
- Drive continuous improvement and adaptive management
Qualifications
Education
- Master’s degree (or equivalent experience) in:
- Conservation
- Natural Resource Management
- Environmental Science
- Or related fields
Experience
- Minimum 12+ years of relevant professional experience
- At least 5 years working in conservation in Southern Africa
- At least 5 years in a senior leadership role managing teams and large programmes
Technical Expertise
- Deep understanding of African conservation issues (ecology, biodiversity, conservation planning)
- Strong knowledge of the relationship between conservation and development
- Experience designing and managing large-scale conservation programmes
Skills & Competencies
- Proven leadership and team management capabilities
- Strong strategic thinking and analytical skills
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities
- Experience in fundraising and partnership development
- Ability to work in complex, fast-changing environments
- High emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills
Additional Requirements
- Willingness to travel up to 30%
- Legal authorization to work in the United States (no visa sponsorship available)
- Strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
Core Values
WWF seeks candidates who align with its core values:
- Courage: Speak up and take initiative
- Integrity: Act with accountability and transparency
- Respect: Embrace diverse perspectives
- Collaboration: Work effectively across teams and partners
Diversity & Inclusion
WWF is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply regardless of background or identity.
Why Join WWF?
This is a high-impact leadership opportunity to shape conservation efforts across Africa and influence global biodiversity strategies.
You will work at the intersection of science, policy, and community engagement—driving solutions that protect ecosystems while supporting sustainable development.
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How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume via the WWF Careers Page using Requisition #26055.
📌 Due to high application volumes, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Lead transformative conservation efforts and help shape a sustainable future for Africa’s wildlife and communities. Apply today.
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