At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead initiatives to embed nature recovery in private sector markets and unlock finance for wildlife.
- Company: Zoological Society of London, a global conservation charity focused on restoring wildlife.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work, and opportunities for international travel.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on biodiversity while leading a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership skills and experience in corporate partnerships and finance.
- Other info: Join a mission-driven organisation committed to sustainability and inclusivity.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 Β£ 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.
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 Β£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 include:
- Developing strategic direction
- Cultivating high-level corporate and financial sector partnerships
- Scaling innovative finance mechanisms
- Strengthening ZSL's leadership role in biodiversity disclosure and standards such as TNFD
- Supporting global corporate engagement through programmes including ZSL's SPOTT initiative and ForestIQ partnership
The role requires strong organisational leadership, with responsibility for mentoring and developing team members across the UK, Africa and Southeast Asia, as well as ensuring financial sustainability through effective budgeting and resource allocation. You will champion an inclusive, collaborative culture grounded in ZSL's values and contribute to the wider strategic leadership of the Directorate.
This position involves international travel, cross-sector engagement at senior levels, and a commitment to delivering impactful, ethical and science-driven conservation outcomes.
Head of Sustainable Business & Finance in London employer: Allen & York
Contact Detail:
Allen & York Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Head of Sustainable Business & Finance in London
β¨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, webinars, or even casual meet-ups. The more you engage with others, the better your chances of landing that dream role.
β¨Show Your Passion
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your enthusiasm for sustainable business shine through. Share your ideas on how to make a difference and how you can contribute to their mission.
β¨Prepare for Interviews
Do your homework on the organisation and its values. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around biodiversity and sustainability. Practice common interview questions to boost your confidence!
β¨Apply Through Our Website
Donβt forget to apply directly through our website! Itβs the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Sustainable Business & Finance in London
Some tips for your application π«‘
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in sustainable business and finance. We want to see how your skills align with our mission at ZSL, so donβt hold back on showcasing relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for wildlife conservation and sustainability shine through in your application. Weβre looking for candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference, so share your personal connection to these values.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key messages come across loud and clear. Remember, less is often more!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. Itβs the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and helps us keep track of all the amazing talent out there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Allen & York
β¨Know Your Stuff
Make sure youβre well-versed in ZSL's mission and the specifics of the Head of Sustainable Business & Finance role. Brush up on current trends in sustainable finance and biodiversity, as well as ZSLβs initiatives like SPOTT and ForestIQ. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the organisation's goals.
β¨Network Like a Pro
Given the importance of partnerships in this role, leverage your existing network. Be prepared to discuss how your connections can benefit ZSL and how youβve successfully built relationships in the past. This demonstrates your ability to engage with high-level stakeholders effectively.
β¨Showcase Leadership Skills
As a senior leader, youβll need to highlight your experience in mentoring and developing teams. Prepare examples of how you've fostered an inclusive culture and driven results through collaboration. This will illustrate your alignment with ZSLβs values and your capability to lead diverse teams.
β¨Prepare for Ethical Discussions
ZSL places a strong emphasis on ethical standards and impactful outcomes. Be ready to discuss how youβve navigated ethical dilemmas in your previous roles and how you plan to uphold these standards at ZSL. This will reflect your commitment to their mission and values.