Programme Head Peatlands

PROGRAMME HEAD PEATLANDS - Netherlands based

At Wetlands International, we are fully dedicated to safeguarding and restoring wetlands so that these unique habitats are treasured and nurtured for their beauty, the life they support and the resources they provide. We work to conserve and restore diverse wetland systems in all parts of the world, ranging from coastal wetlands to freshwater systems. To make a global difference we inspire and mobilise society to act and influence levers of change.

As Programme Head Peatlands you will be overseeing and leading further development of our global portfolio of peatland programmes to achieve our ambitious Strategic Intent targets on peatlands. This involves translating science into policies and practices to safeguard high value peatlands, achieve successful community based peatland restoration and reduce the impact of peat based industries. You will be developing and championing cutting-edge programmes and partnerships such as the Peatland Breakthrough, fundraising for priorities, representing us in relevant fora and steering effective implementation and advocacy.

The role involves strategic leadership, motivating and collaborating with Wetlands International staff in all regions to deliver results, line management and coaching of technical/project staff in the global office, and working with associate experts and partners. You will be a member of - and collaborate closely with – the Programme Leadership team consisting of Programme Heads Delta’s & Coasts and Rivers & Lakes and Heads of Finance, Resource Development, Knowledge & Innovation and Advocacy & Communications and chaired by the Director of Programme Impact..

Profile

We are looking for a leader with significant experience in programme design and implementation, mobilising alliances and upscaling action. You bring vision, strategy and a network relevant to scaling up peatland conservation and restoration. You understand the many facets of wetland management in developing country contexts. You are willing and able to travel regularly and you are committed to Wetlands International’s mission, values and ways of working.

Job Offer

• Full time (36 hours - 5 days per week), gross salary max. EUR 7.592,00 excl. 8% holiday pay.
• Contract duration: One year, with intention of extension.
• Location: Global Office in Ede-Wageningen, the Netherlands (2 days per week).

Responsibilities (and estimated % of your time):

Strategy, accountability and representation (30%)

• Provide leadership on Wetlands International’s strategy and theory of change to safeguard and restore peatlands, in the context of our upcoming Strategic Intent revision for 2025-2035 and beyond
• Ensure accountability towards our Strategic Intent. Evaluate and report on implementation progress towards our strategic goals and contribute to institutional reporting and internal learning processes.
• Represent and promote Wetlands International towards external partners, donors, members and networks on various levels and in a multitude of international settings.

Programme development & fundraising (30%)

• Develop and champion our peatland project and programme portfolio along with its strategic initiatives and partnerships 

• Drive fundraising with relevant donors and mobilise financial, technical and human resources towards our goals in close collaboration with our fundraising team 

Programme implementation & operations (30%)

• Steer and supervise effective implementation of the peatland project and programme portfolio, ensuring knowledge exchange and visibility of our results
• Ensure efficient management and planning of financial, technical and human resources according to Wetlands International policies and standards
• Develop and line manage a team of professionals in the Global Office and facilitate collaboration and development across our network of offices  

Essential education and experience

• At least 10 years of professional experience in programme development and implementation with a track record of successful results, working with dispersed teams and diverse partners, including private sector.  

• Knowledge of key debates, trends and global processes related to wetland ecosystems, climate change, land degradation and nature-based solutions, including the social dimension. Specific peatland knowledge and experience is a preference.  

• Proven ability to lead, inspire and empower colleagues, to structure and prioritise, and build a high-performance team.  

• Strong interpersonal skills and comfortable working across different cultures, confident communicator and advocate for different target audiences.  

• Organised, resilient and solution oriented. Frank, flexible and courageous, willing and able to learn, share and innovate.  

• Excellent communications skills in English are essential; other languages, especially French or Spanish, are a plus.  

•  

  Master’s degree in a relevant discipline.  

How to apply

Please send a max 2-page CV and motivation letter to Jozefa van der Veen, HR Officer to hr@wetlands.org no later than 12 January 2025, with the subject: “Application – Programme Head Peatlands”. In this procedure we work with Sustainability Works. Please feel free to contact annelies.pijnenburg@sustainabilityworks.eu, should you have any questions.

Ideally you already live in the Netherlands and you possess or do not need a work permit during the first contract period (12 months).

First round video call interviews: 30 January 2025
Second round in the Ede office: 6 February 2025.