World Wildlife Fund Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

World Wildlife Fund has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, information technology, and program direction.

Driven by a commitment to planetary health, World Wildlife Fund champions the protection of wildlife and natural ecosystems through rigorous scientific research and direct conservation action, fostering a global movement for a sustainable future.

Leadership Roles at World Wildlife Fund

  • Chief Executive Officer - Lj Weatherwax
  • Chief Operating Officer - Loren Mayor
  • Interim Chief Information Officer & Vice President, Corporate Information Security - Matthew Smith
  • Program Director, Papua - Benja Mambai
  • Lj Weatherwax - Chief Executive Officer

    Lj Weatherwax, the Chief Executive Officer at World Wildlife Fund, directs the organization's overarching strategy and global conservation initiatives. Overseeing all major programs, the Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with the mission to protect wildlife and natural ecosystems. This leadership role involves driving policy advocacy and fostering international partnerships to address critical environmental threats. By championing scientific research and evidence-based conservation, Lj Weatherwax significantly impacts the organization's effectiveness in preserving biodiversity across diverse habitats. Ultimately, Weatherwax secures the long-term vision and financial stability for World Wildlife Fund's extensive global operations.

    Loren Mayor - Chief Operating Officer

    Loren Mayor, the Chief Operating Officer at World Wildlife Fund, manages the organization's day-to-day operations and ensures efficient execution of conservation strategies. Overseeing global operational frameworks, the Chief Operating Officer guarantees that field-based conservation work and policy advocacy efforts are seamlessly integrated. This critical role involves optimizing resource allocation and enhancing operational effectiveness across multiple continents. By streamlining internal processes and supporting field teams, Loren Mayor directly contributes to the successful implementation of habitat restoration and species protection programs. Ultimately, Mayor ensures the robust functioning of World Wildlife Fund's extensive network, supporting its mission to create lasting environmental change.

    Matthew Smith - Interim Chief Information Officer & Vice President, Corporate Information Security

    Matthew Smith, the Interim Chief Information Officer & Vice President, Corporate Information Security at World Wildlife Fund, leads the strategic direction of information technology and safeguards corporate data integrity. Overseeing the development and implementation of robust IT infrastructure, the Interim Chief Information Officer & Vice President, Corporate Information Security ensures secure and efficient technological operations supporting global conservation efforts. This vital position involves managing cybersecurity protocols and driving digital transformation initiatives across the organization. By enhancing data security and optimizing information systems, Matthew Smith directly supports the organization's ability to conduct scientific research and manage conservation projects effectively. Ultimately, Smith fortifies World Wildlife Fund's digital defenses and technological capabilities.

    Benja Mambai - Program Director, Papua

    Benja Mambai, the Program Director, Papua at World Wildlife Fund, directs critical conservation initiatives within the Papua region, focusing on protecting unique wildlife and vital ecosystems. Overseeing on-the-ground operations and community engagement, the Program Director, Papua ensures the effective implementation of species protection and habitat restoration projects. This leadership role involves fostering local partnerships and advocating for sustainable development practices that align with conservation goals. By guiding scientific research and field-based interventions, Benja Mambai directly contributes to preserving biodiversity in this ecologically significant area. Ultimately, Mambai drives tangible conservation outcomes and strengthens World Wildlife Fund's presence in Papua.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding World Wildlife Fund Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads World Wildlife Fund?
    World Wildlife Fund is led by Lj Weatherwax (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Loren Mayor (Chief Operating Officer) and Matthew Smith (Interim Chief Information Officer & Vice President, Corporate Information Security).
    Who is part of World Wildlife Fund’s executive team?
    The executive team of World Wildlife Fund includes leaders such as Lj Weatherwax (Chief Executive Officer), Loren Mayor (Chief Operating Officer), Matthew Smith (Interim Chief Information Officer & Vice President, Corporate Information Security) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does World Wildlife Fund have?
    World Wildlife Fund has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in World Wildlife Fund’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of World Wildlife Fund includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Interim Chief Information Officer & Vice President, Corporate Information Security, Program Director, Papua.