Claude Gascon

Claude Gascon was appointed as interim CEO by the GEF Council during its 70th session in December 2025. He also serves as the Director of Strategy and Operations, bringing extensive experience in conservation leadership and scientific research. From 2010 to 2015, he served as Chief Science Officer and Executive Vice President at the National Fish & Wildlife Foundation, where he played a key role in advancing the organization’s mission. Prior to that, Claude Gascon held various positions at Conservation International between 1999 and 2010, culminating in his role as Executive Vice President for Field Programs. He also worked for several decades in the Amazon and other tropical countries on biodiversity conservation. He holds a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from Florida State University.