WWF-Singapore names new CEO

WWF-Singapore has appointed Chew Sutat as its new chief executive officer, effective 1 June 2026. In his new role, Chew will focus on strengthening WWF-Singapore’s conservation efforts and deepening partnerships across Singapore and the wider region, according to a statement by the organisation.

Chew brings more than 25 years of experience across the corporate and financial sectors, including DBS Bank, OCBC and Standard Chartered. He has served as a non-executive director and advisor to companies, start-ups, investment committees, foundations and non-profit organisations.

The appointment comes as WWF-Singapore looks to expand its efforts across biodiversity conservation, climate action and community engagement.

Don't miss: JA Worldwide appoints former WWF-Singapore chief to lead APAC operations

Among its ongoing initiatives is Canopy, a nature finance facility aimed at supporting up to 12,000 hectares of ecosystem restoration across Southeast Asia. The organisation is also a founding member of the Action for a Resilient Climate (ARC) Coalition, which brings together corporates, financial institutions, philanthropic organisations and government partners to support integrity and transparency in global carbon markets.

According to WWF-Singapore, the initiatives are designed to mobilise climate and nature financing at scale while delivering measurable outcomes for both communities and ecosystems.

At the same time, the organisation is stepping up public engagement efforts through science, education and digital innovation. WWF-Singapore said it is developing new initiatives to make conservation more accessible through hands-on experiences and collaborations with educators, researchers, conservationists and government partners across Asia.

“Chew brings a strong sense of purpose, strategic focus and a deep appreciation of WWF-Singapore’s role in advancing climate and nature outcomes. The board is confident in his ability to build on the organisation’s progress and strengthen its impact across Singapore and the region," said Hsieh Fu Hua, chairman of WWF-Singapore. 

Speaking on his new role, Chew said, "It is a privilege to take on this role at WWF-Singapore at such a significant milestone, as WWF-Singapore marks its 20th anniversary alongside 65 years of WWF globally."

"As we honour two decades of conservation impact from Singapore, I look forward to working with the team, the Board and our partners to carry that purpose forward and deliver greater impact for climate, nature, community and our shared future together," he added. 

The appointment follows the departure of former CEO Vivek Kumar earlier this year, after more than four years with the organisation.

In conversation with MARKETING-INTERACTIVE at the time, Kumar said he was stepping down to pursue a new role focused on youth empowerment across Asia Pacific. During his tenure, he led initiatives aimed at strengthening WWF Singapore’s position as a regional conservation hub, while expanding partnerships and sharpening its strategic priorities.

Related articles: 
Reliance-Meta AI venture REIL names Parminder Singh as founding CEO  
Tim Cook to step aside as Apple CEO, handing reins to John Ternus   
Capital A taps former CIMB heavyweight as deputy CEO