Do you want to work together with inspired colleagues to create a world in which nature and people thrive? And contribute to the conservation of coastal systems and iconic ocean creatures? That is what you will do when you work at WWF-Netherlands (WWF-NL) for the Dutch Caribbean program.

WWF-NL has been actively involved in conservation in the Dutch Caribbean for decades, with a strong commitment to protecting its unique biodiversity and marine ecosystems. Our strategy for the Dutch Caribbean emphasizes achieving nature-positive impact by mobilizing stakeholders to engage in conservation efforts, promoting sustainable practices, and addressing key environmental threats such as climate change, habitat degradation, and unsustainable resource use.

Our work focuses on two pillars: (1) creating climate resilient coasts through protection and restoration of essential ecosystems while fostering resilience in local communities. (2) Protecting migratory corridors of flagship marine species like sea turtles, cetaceans and sharks. By aligning with WWF-NL’s broader conservation objectives, our efforts in the Dutch Caribbean contribute to reversing biodiversity loss and fostering a sustainable future for people and nature.

Dutch Caribbean Program Lead

(32 – 40 hours)

Role and Responsibilities

The Dutch Caribbean Program Lead is responsible for implementing WWF-NL’s strategic plan in the region, ensuring impactful conservation outcomes, and strengthening local partnerships. The primary tasks include:

• Dutch Caribbean Program Development, implementation and embedding in regional WWF strategy
• Fundraising & Grant Management: Use WWF-NL’s seed funding to leverage large scale funding for Dutch Caribbean, leverage green/blue finance. Support fundraising within the context of the Caribbean regional strategy.
• Advocacy & Policy Influence: advocate for improved environmental governance. Act as local spokesperson on WWF-NL communication, engagement and advocacy goals for The Dutch Caribbean.
• Organizational development: support local partners in collaborative projects and strengthen their ability to achieve impact
• Monitoring & Reporting: Ensure timely and accurate reporting on Dutch Caribbean program progress, financial expenditures, and conservation impacts to WWF-NL and donors.
• Budget management: responsible for expenses within approved annual workplan and budget specifically allocated to Dutch Caribbean Program
• Build strong relationships with governments, NGOs, local communities (through partners), businesses, WWF Network and scientific institutions to foster a collaborative approach to conservation.

Candidate Profile 
The ideal candidate possesses the following qualifications:

• A Master’s degree in environmental science, marine biology, conservation, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in conservation program management, preferably in island or marine ecosystems.
• Demonstrable experience with (Dutch) Caribbean networks and culture is essential.
• Strong project management skills, including budgeting, stakeholder coordination, and reporting.
• Experience in policy advocacy and engagement with governmental and non-governmental stakeholders.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.
• Experience with WWF standards and network is preferred.
• Fluency in English is required; proficiency in Dutch is a strong asset.
• Ability to speak or a willingness to learn Papiamentu is a requirement.
• Must be physically based in the Dutch Caribbean.

Core values
You recognize yourself in the core values of WWF-NL which are:
Courage
Integrity
Respect
Collaboration

Contract duration 

• Full-time position
• Start date anticipated on 1 July 2025
• Initially the candidate will be provided with a 1 year (maximum) consultancy contract while WWF-NL ensures accommodation of contractual staffing based in the Dutch Caribbean.
• When staffing conditions have been achieved, the consultancy contract will be replaced by a staff contract for one year, with potential for extension based on performance and funding.

Recruitment Process & Contact Details 
Interested candidates should submit a CV and cover letter detailing their suitability for the role. Applications should be sent to mhougee@wwf.nl by 15 June 2025. Review the detailed Terms of Reference for more information. For any inquiries about the role, please contact Arjan de Groene at agroene@wwf.nl.

This role offers a unique opportunity to lead impactful conservation efforts in one of the world’s most ecologically significant marine regions. If you are passionate about marine and island conservation and possess the leadership skills to drive meaningful change, we encourage you to apply.