At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead WWF-UK's finance policy to drive a net zero, nature-positive transition.
- Company: Join a global conservation charity making a real impact on the planet.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26+ days of annual leave, flexible working, and a generous pension contribution.
- Why this job: Shape financial policies that protect our planet and influence key decision-makers.
- Qualifications: Expertise in finance policy and proven leadership skills required.
- Other info: Work in a beautiful office surrounded by nature with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 48700 - 60000 £ per year.
£56,297 - £70,000pa + excellent benefits
Woking, Surrey GU21 4LL / Hybrid Working
Hybrid working: Minimum 40% in person collaboration per month
About the role
We’re excited to be recruiting a Head of Finance Policy to lead WWF-UK’s work on shaping and influencing financial sector policy in support of a net zero, nature-positive transition. In this role, you’ll set the strategic direction for WWF-UK’s finance policy agenda, developing and advocating for policy solutions that align the financial system with climate and nature goals. You’ll lead a specialist policy team and work closely with colleagues across Advocacy, Conservation, Science and Business Advocacy to turn evidence into credible, politically relevant policy change. You’ll represent WWF-UK with senior policymakers, regulators, financial institutions and partners, building strong coalitions and influencing decision-makers in the UK and internationally. You’ll also play a key role in shaping how the financial sector’s voice supports stronger government action, and in ensuring WWF’s finance policy work connects to wider priorities such as deforestation, food systems and nature restoration. This is a senior leadership role for someone with deep expertise in finance policy, strong political judgement, and the ability to lead teams and partnerships to deliver real-world impact.
Skills and experience
- Significant experience leading policy development and influencing in the area of financial sector regulation or sustainable finance
- Strong understanding of how government policy is developed and influenced, and how political context shapes policy outcomes
- Proven track record of influencing senior stakeholders, decision-makers or regulators to achieve policy change
- Deep expertise in one or more relevant areas such as climate and environment, nature restoration, deforestation or sustainable supply chains
- Experience developing and delivering policy strategies from concept through to implementation
- Strong analytical capability, confident working with evidence, data and complex policy detail
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, able to make complex issues clear and compelling
- Proven people leadership experience, including leading, motivating and developing specialist teams
- Experience managing programmes, projects or budgets in a complex organisational setting
- Strong alignment with WWF-UK’s mission, values and commitment to inclusive, equitable policy making
Desirable
- Experience working with or within government, regulators, central banks or international policy institutions
- Experience operating across devolved UK policy contexts (e.g. Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland)
- Experience working in international policy environments or with global networks
- Experience managing grants or working with external funders and partners
- Experience developing policy approaches that involve affected communities or diverse stakeholders
What we offer
- Annual leave starting at 26 days a year, rising one day each year to 31 days plus bank holidays
- Flexible working options, to support your work life balance
- 7.5% employer contribution to pension, rising to 10% with employee contribution
- Learning and development opportunities to help you grow
- Regular wellbeing initiatives to support your health and happiness.
This is a UK based contract, and you are required to have the Right to Work in the UK. Unfortunately, we’re unable to offer sponsorship and any offer of employment will be subject to evidence of your Right to Work in the UK. This role is hybrid with a minimum 40% of your contracted hours spent at our beautiful UK head office, the Living Planet Centre in Woking, Surrey, where you’ll hot desk among trees and gardens.
About WWF-UK
We’re a global conservation charity with millions of supporters and hundreds of projects around the world. At WWF-UK, we’re bringing our world back to life. Protecting what’s left isn’t enough. We’re racing to restore nature and prevent catastrophic climate change. And it’s a race we can win with everyone’s help. We’re courageous, passionate, and driven by science. For more than 60 years we’ve been at the forefront of global efforts to protect wildlife and the natural world. We work with integrity, collaboration and deep respect for those we partner with.
How to apply
Click the apply now button to apply via our website. You’ll be asked to complete an application form and upload your CV and a supporting statement that tells us why you’ll be a great addition to WWF-UK. Application closing date: 08/03/2026
Our Diversity Promise to You
At the heart of our mission is a simple truth: the planet needs everyone. That means you - in all your uniqueness, regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marital status, race, faith or belief, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, or how you choose to express yourself. We don’t do stereotypes. We work together with purpose, driven by passion and enhanced by respect, courage, and integrity. We pull together from all walks of life to fight for a better future, and we want you to feel supported every step of the way. We’re proud to be a Disability Confident employer and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels they belong. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and identities. So, if there’s anything we can do to make your application or interview experience more comfortable or accessible, just give our Talent Acquisition Team a shout via our website.
Safeguarding Commitment
Just as we celebrate diversity in all its forms, we are equally dedicated to creating a safe environment for every person we work with or encounter. Our commitment extends to children, adults at risk, and individuals experiencing any form of vulnerability, whether temporary or permanent. We proudly stand behind CAPSEAH (Common Approach to Protection from Sexual Exploitation, Sexual Abuse and Sexual Harassment) and put this commitment into action through clear policies, thorough training, and recruitment checks tailored to each role, which may include external vetting. If you ever have a concern, however big or small, know that there are confidential channels ready to support you at WWF-UK. We promise to respond promptly and with care, because protecting every individual is at the heart of everything we do.
Head of Finance Policy in Knaphill employer: WWF
Contact Detail:
WWF Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance Policy in Knaphill
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those connected to WWF-UK or finance policy. Attend events, webinars, and workshops to meet potential colleagues and decision-makers. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching WWF-UK’s current projects and policies. Show that you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about their mission. Tailor your answers to reflect how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You’ll want to clearly articulate your vision for finance policy and how you can lead teams to achieve impactful results. Keep it concise and compelling – think of it as your personal brand statement.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the WWF-UK team. So, hit that apply button and let’s get started!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance Policy in Knaphill
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Finance Policy role. Highlight your experience in finance policy and any relevant achievements that align with WWF-UK's mission. We want to see how your background fits into our goals!
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Be specific about your skills and experiences, and how they relate to the job description. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this is a senior leadership role, make sure to highlight your people leadership experience. Talk about how you've motivated teams and led projects to success. We’re looking for someone who can inspire others!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need to complete your application smoothly. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at WWF
✨Know Your Policy Inside Out
Make sure you have a solid grasp of current financial sector policies, especially those related to sustainable finance and climate change. Familiarise yourself with WWF-UK's mission and how their policy agenda aligns with broader environmental goals. This will help you articulate your vision and demonstrate your commitment during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading teams and influencing stakeholders. Think about specific instances where you've successfully driven policy change or managed complex projects. This will show that you not only understand the technical aspects but also possess the people skills necessary for this senior role.
✨Engage with Current Events
Stay updated on recent developments in finance policy and environmental issues. Being able to discuss current events and their implications for WWF-UK’s work will demonstrate your proactive approach and genuine interest in the role. It’s a great way to connect your expertise with real-world challenges.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask your interviewers about WWF-UK’s future direction, challenges in the financial sector, or their approach to collaboration across teams. This shows that you’re not just interested in the position but are also keen to contribute to the organisation’s success.