WWF Singapore CEO Vivek Kumar steps down

Vivek Kumar has stepped down as CEO of WWF Singapore after more than four years with the organisation, citing a new role focused on youth empowerment across Asia Pacific. In conversation with MARKETING-INTERACTIVE, Kumar said "this was not a decision I sought, and it was not an easy one to make." 

"Over the past four years, WWF Singapore has reached a point of strategic clarity and organisational strength, with a strong board-backed strategy and leadership team in place. At the same time, an opportunity emerged in a different sector that aligns closely with a purpose that has shaped much of my life and career, working with and for people," he added.

During his tenure, Kumar led initiatives that reinforced WWF Singapore’s position as a regional hub for conservation, refining strategic priorities, broadening partnerships, expanding its regional presence, and deepening its impact locally.

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Key milestones included launching the Blue Catalyst programme during New York Climate Week to accelerate credible blue carbon solutions, and convening the WWF Earth Hour Summit, which brought together global thought leaders, policymakers, businesses, and practitioners to advance dialogue on nature, climate, and finance in Asia. "None of this was individual work, it was the result of an exceptional team and committed partners working together," highlighted Kumar. 

Reflecting on his time at WWF Singapore, Kumar said organisational growth and continuity were key measures, and he hopes WWF Singapore has become "stronger, more confident and better positioned for the future.’”

Kumar will continue to support WWF Singapore as an advisor from February 2026. Currently, no successor has been announced, with the board overseeing the search process.

In the interim, the chairman will work closely with the senior management team to ensure continuity of leadership and operations, and that the organisation’s work continues as usual.

Kumar joined WWF Singapore as chief marketing officer in 2021 and rose through the ranks to chief marketing, communications and fundraising officer in 2023, before becoming CEO in 2024. His leadership included scaling Earth Hour, launching AR-supported conservation projects, and building partnerships across private banks, national attractions, and mainstream media to amplify WWF Singapore’s impact.

Before WWF, Kumar held senior marketing and leadership roles at NTUC FairPrice, Shell, and WPP across Asia Pacific.

Over the years, WWF Singapore has launched landmark public engagement initiatives including the Earth House festival in 2025. The festival, held at Sentosa Sensoryscape drew thousands to explore nature-positive, climate-resilient solutions through interactive booths, hands-on workshops, and sustainability pledges. Some highlights were coral restoration and citizen science initiatives, a “Build your own planet-friendly meal” workshop, a bottle recycling activation by Watsons Singapore, and performances by local artists culminating in the symbolic "Switch Off" moment at 8:30 PM.

The initiative was further amplified by Singapore's SG60 celebrations with iconic city landmarks from Orchard Road to Marina Bay switching off their lights in solidarity. 

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