Irma Larrea has over 20 years of experience with WWF, specializing in program management, financial planning, global strategies, environmental sustainability, and international development.
Since 2023, Irma has served as Senior Director of the Herencia Colombia Project Finance for Permanence, securing US$245 million in public and private funding to protect 32 million hectares of Colombian landscapes and seascapes. Prior to this role, she spent eight years as Program Manager, Deputy Director, and Director of Planning, Monitoring & Evaluation with WWF’s Markets team, managing seven projects funded by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation focused on private sector engagement and deforestation-free initiatives.
Irma began her career in Ecuador, where she served as Communications Director for Fundación Natura and as Communications Officer for the WWF Galápagos Program. She later worked with the Galápagos Program on key initiatives like the Galápagos Marine Reserve Project (USAID-funded) and the Galápagos Sustainable Energy Initiative (Toyota-funded). In 2007, she moved to Washington, DC, as Senior Program Officer, leading communications, planning, monitoring, and fundraising efforts for the Galápagos Program, contributing to its 2005-2015 strategic plan.
From 2013 to 2016, Irma was Program Manager for the Living Amazon Initiative, developing strategies for preserving Amazon’s global environmental and cultural significance.
Irma holds an M.A. in Communications and Development from Ohio University, specializing in Political Lobbying and Leadership. She is fluent in Spanish, French, and English, with conversational Portuguese.
