John is a seasoned development expert who serves as Senior Director at CIFOR-ICRAF and Senior Strategic Advisor and Co-founder of the Global Landscapes Forum (GLF)—the world’s largest and fastest-growing platform for sustainable landscapes, engaging over 4 billion people in 175 countries (75 % in the Global South) and supporting 99 community-led projects (with a target of 500 by 2028).
Under his leadership, GLF has secured more than €60 million in funding, grown a team of 52 staff and consultants, and built a network of 35 Charter Members. Previously, as Communications Director at CIFOR, he led a nine-year strategy that achieved double- and triple-digit growth across platforms and advised three Director-Generals to elevate forestry on the global political agenda. A former TIME Hong Kong Bureau Chief, John began his career as a radio, broadcast, and print correspondent across Asia for 12 years and later spent three years as Senior Vice President at PCCW in Hong Kong. He is passionate about driving innovative solutions for landscapes, climate change, biodiversity, sustainable development, and finance.