Chief Financial Officer

United for life and livelihoods

Created in 1948, The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is now the world’s largest and most diverse environmental network, harnessing the knowledge, resources and reach of more than 1,400 Member organisations and some 15,000 experts. Uniquely comprised of both government and civil society organisations, IUCN is the necessary neutral space required to forge and implement solutions to environmental challenges and achieve sustainable development.

Reporting to its newly appointed Director General, Dr Grethel Aguilar, IUCN is now seeking a Chief Financial Officer (CFO), part of the organisation’s Executive Board and based in Gland, Switzerland, to provide overall strategic leadership and direction for its global finance function. The CFO will be responsible for the fiduciary control of IUCN’s assets, for the effective and efficient use of its financial resources and for maintaining IUCN’s standing and reputation with donors, programme partners and other stakeholders. The CFO reports directly to the Director General and oversees a global finance team, comprised of the Headquarters finance group, of the programme operations unit, as well as regional finance managers through a matrix structure. The CFO is also responsible for the General Services Unit, managing IUCN Headquarters building, the global security and global procurement functions.

The ideal CFO will be a proven senior leader with significant experience in international finance, in depth knowledge of corporate finance and risk management practices, and excellent knowledge of forecasting methods. Previous track record in not-for-profit finance, including donor engagement and programme finances will be advantageous. You will be an inspiring leader with extensive experience in empowering, developing, and retaining highly performing teams, including leading indirect teams in a global matrix structure. Crucially, you will bring a deep personal commitment to the sustainable development goals, nature conservation and/or sustainable use issues.

To apply please submit a CV and a covering letter, detailing how you fulfil the role description and personal specification online through the IUCN HR Management System. 

The deadline is 09.00 CET on Monday 11th March 2024.  

The role is based in Gland, Switzerland and the salary is commensurate with the seniority of the role. Candidates must be fluent in English. A working knowledge in another IUCN language (French or Spanish) would be an advantage.