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- Tasks: Lead initiatives to embed nature recovery in private sector markets and secure funding for conservation.
- Company: Join the Zoological Society of London, a global leader in wildlife conservation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, impactful work, and opportunities for international travel.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in biodiversity while shaping corporate sustainability practices.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and a track record in securing large finance programmes.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to ethical and science-driven conservation.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) is an international conservation charity, driven by science, working to restore wildlife in the UK and around the world. Our vision is a world where wildlife thrives, and every person at ZSL plays a part in achieving this shared mission.
Role Overview
The Head of Sustainable Business & Finance leads ZSL's work to embed nature recovery at the heart of private sector markets. This influential role guides a high‑performing team and works across the organisation to unlock over £100 million in finance for nature and engage 500 companies to improve transparency around environmental impacts by 2030. A central focus is forging transformational partnerships with major organisations, ensuring ZSL's scientific expertise shapes how businesses and investors address biodiversity.
As a senior leader within the Conservation & Policy Directorate, you will already have an established network of contacts, shaping and delivering ZSL's markets‑facing strategy, steward the Sustainable Business & Finance department, and oversee a diverse portfolio of institutional and philanthropic grants. You will grow ZSL's advisory services, expanding income and impact while ensuring all work aligns with ZSL's ethical standards and delivers measurable outcomes for wildlife.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop strategic direction, cultivate high‑level corporate and financial sector partnerships, and scale innovative finance mechanisms.
- Strengthen ZSL's leadership role in biodiversity disclosure and standards such as TNFD.
- Support global corporate engagement through programmes including ZSL's SPOTT initiative and ForestIQ partnership.
- Provide organisational leadership, mentoring and developing team members across the UK, Africa and Southeast Asia.
- Ensure financial sustainability through effective budgeting and resource allocation.
- Champion an inclusive, collaborative culture grounded in ZSL's values and contribute to the wider strategic leadership of the Directorate.
- Engage in international travel, cross‑sector engagement at senior levels, and commit to delivering impactful, ethical and science‑driven conservation outcomes.
Qualifications & Experience
Requirements include strong organisational leadership, experience in leading high‑performing teams, and a proven track record of securing and managing large finance programmes for conservation. Familiarity with biodiversity disclosure standards such as TNFD and experience working with large corporate partners is desirable.
Head of Sustainable Business & Finance in England employer: Allen & York
Contact Detail:
Allen & York Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Sustainable Business & Finance in England
✨Tip Number 1
Don’t just sit back and wait for the perfect job to come to you. Get proactive! Reach out directly to the job poster on LinkedIn or via email. A friendly message expressing your interest can really make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, webinars, or even local meetups related to conservation and finance. The more people you know, the better your chances of hearing about opportunities before they’re even advertised.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for sustainability in every conversation. Whether it’s during an interview or a casual chat, let your enthusiasm for wildlife conservation shine through. It’s all about connecting with the mission!
✨Tip Number 4
Remember to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are keen to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Sustainable Business & Finance in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff: Before you start writing, make sure you understand the role and ZSL's mission. Dive into their work on biodiversity and sustainable finance. This will help you tailor your application to show how your experience aligns with their goals.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you in your application. Share your passion for conservation and sustainability, and don’t be afraid to include personal anecdotes that highlight your journey.
Showcase Your Achievements: Highlight your past successes in leading teams and securing funding. Use specific examples that demonstrate your impact in previous roles, especially those related to biodiversity and corporate partnerships. Numbers speak volumes!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our mission at ZSL!
How to prepare for a job interview at Allen & York
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in ZSL's mission and the specifics of the Head of Sustainable Business & Finance role. Brush up on biodiversity disclosure standards like TNFD and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Network
This role requires strong connections in the corporate and financial sectors. Be prepared to talk about your existing network and how you can leverage those relationships to benefit ZSL’s initiatives.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a senior leader, you’ll need to show that you can mentor and develop high-performing teams. Share examples from your past where you’ve successfully led teams or projects, especially in conservation or finance.
✨Align with Their Values
ZSL is all about collaboration and inclusivity. Make sure to express how your personal values align with theirs and provide examples of how you've fostered an inclusive culture in previous roles.