WWF International: Defining a New Operating Model

Case Overview

FSG was engaged to define a new operating model for WWF International that reaffirmed its value to the WWF network and to the field of conservation.

WWF was uniquely positioned to meet global environmental challenges based on its strong brand, evolving network identity and demonstrated capability for large-scale impact. A significant change in leadership at the Secretariat level prompted it to evaluate its potential, articulate its value-adding roles in service to the WWF network, define a new vision and translate that vision into a new operating model.

To create a new vision for the WWF Secretariat, FSG began by interviewing key staff members to understand the value the Secretariat brings to the WWF network and to conservation. FSG uncovered a sense of untapped potential amid the urgency of global conservation challenges, and a need for a clear value proposition that emphasized the Secretariat’s leadership in building unity, driving higher performance standards, and nurturing ambition for large scale conservation initiatives within the Network. The new vision: Driving transparency and performance to grow and protect WWF’s resources.

This new vision was then translated into an operating model, which included defining key activities and deliverables to be performed by each division, assessing the human and financial resources needed to perform those value-adding activities and defining the structure that would best deliver the value-proposition. In this phase of work, FSG:

• Linked the Secretariat’s value proposition to specific goals
• Built on expectations from the Network to describe what success would look like for the Secretariat
• Assessed the Secretariat’s activities to determine which delivered true value to the Network
• Identified areas for change within the Secretariat’s activities

As the operational structure of the Secretariat changed, so too did the funding model. FSG analyzed past funding agreements and expectations of the Network, and defined several funding scenarios. Donor segments were defined and assessed, and new principles were developed to guide WWF International’s fundraising and budget allocations.

Over the course of the engagement, FSG assisted WWF International through a major change process, from the definition of a new value proposition to a new organizational and operational structure to a detailed transition timeline. FSG helped align WWF International’s activities with a new vision, enabling it to best add value to its network and create significant impact in conservation.

About WWF International

The world’s leading conservation organization, WWF International works in 100 countries and is supported by close to 5 million members globally. WWF combines global reach with a foundation in science, involves action at every level from local to global and ensures the delivery of innovative solutions that meet the needs of both people and nature.