The Senior Program Officer, Blue Finance (SPO) will divide their time between leading WWF-US’s engagement in the Global Fund for Coral Reefs (GFCR) funded Solomon Islands Coral Reef Resilience Project and contributing to WWF-US’s broader Blended and Innovative Finance portfolio. The SPO will serve as a key liaison with key internal and external partners, ensuring strong collaboration and alignment. The role provides leadership in managing complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives, ensuring WWF-US meets fiduciary and compliance responsibilities while advancing innovative approaches to mobilize capital for conservation impact.

Please note: Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. This position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship.  In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.  

Responsibilities

Solomon Islands Coral Reef Resilience Project:

• Lead WWF-US project management for the GFCR Solomon Islands project, serving as the main point of contact and ensuring effective coordination with WWF-Pacific, UNCDF, and other partners for smooth and effective implementation.
• Ensure WWF-US fulfills all fiduciary, reporting, and compliance obligations to GFCR as the convening agent, including oversight of financial and programmatic reporting, budget management, and donor communications.
• Coordinate closely with other WWF-US project colleagues to leverage technical, operational, and financial support for effective project delivery.
• Provide strategic guidance and problem-solving to address implementation challenges, working with field teams and partners to maintain high standards of conservation and community outcomes.
• Represent WWF-US in external forums and donor engagements related to the project, fostering collaboration and promotion innovative finance approaches.

Blended and Innovative Finance Portfolio:

• Support the overall Blended and Innovative Finance portfolio by leading or contributing to the design, development, and implementation of new and existing blended and innovative finance initiatives.
• Support pipeline development by identifying opportunities and helping shape projects that leverage capital for conservation impact.
• Collaborate across WWF-US teams, WWF country offices and the WWF global network to advance blended and innovative finance objectives.  
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Technical Proficiency in Blended and Innovative Finance: Demonstrates deep understanding of blended finance structures, innovative financing mechanisms, and sustainable finance instruments relevant to marine conservation. Applies technical expertise to design, implement, and adapt finance solutions that support conservation and community-based outcomes.
• Complex Project Leadership: Leads and manages complex, multi-partner projects with multiple donors, implementing entities, and stakeholders. Ensures smooth coordination across diverse teams, anticipates risks, and resolves challenges to achieve high-quality results on time and within budget.
• Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Effectively conveys information to internal and external audiences through clear and concise oral, written, and interpersonal communication. Works cooperatively with others to achieve mutual understanding, demonstrating empathy, actively listening, and contributing to a collaborative work environment.
• Relationship Management and Collaboration: Establishes and maintains productive relationships with individuals both within and outside the organization, including donors, partners, NGOs, and community-based stakeholders. Understands and addresses the needs and concerns of others, fosters trust, and promotes collaboration to achieve shared goals.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Business, Finance, Economics, Sustainable Development, Environmental Management, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of demonstrated experience in blended and innovative conservation finance, preferably in marine conservation.
• Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize effectively and deliver high-quality work under tight deadlines.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively within a matrixed team environment.
• Strong research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex financial and conservation concepts to diverse audiences.
• Experience collaborating with international partners, governments, NGOs, and/or community-based organizations preferred.
• Committed to building and strengthening a culture of inclusion within and across teams.