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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.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to ethical and science-driven conservation.
- 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.
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 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
✨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, Justine Sanford, via email. A friendly message can make a huge difference and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in the conservation and finance sectors. Engaging with their content or asking for insights can help you stand out and might even lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching ZSL's recent projects and initiatives. Show that you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about their mission. Tailor your responses to highlight how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and contributing to ZSL's vision of a thriving wildlife world.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Sustainable Business & Finance
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, especially those related to leading teams and securing funding for conservation projects. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've made an impact in previous roles, as this will resonate with us at ZSL.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our mission!
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. Familiarise yourself with biodiversity disclosure standards like TNFD and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Network
Since this role involves forging partnerships, be prepared to talk about your existing network in the corporate and financial sectors. Highlight any successful collaborations you've led that align with conservation efforts, as this will demonstrate your ability to drive impactful relationships.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
ZSL is looking for someone who can lead high-performing teams. Share specific examples of how you've mentored team members or managed diverse groups, especially in challenging environments. This will show your capability to foster an inclusive and collaborative culture.
✨Prepare for Ethical Discussions
Given the ethical standards ZSL upholds, be ready to discuss how you’ve ensured ethical practices in your previous roles. Think about how you can contribute to ZSL’s mission while maintaining financial sustainability and delivering measurable outcomes for wildlife.