Luthando Dziba is a conservationist with extensive experience in the ecology and management of large mammals. He is currently the Regional Director for East Africa, Madagascar & West Indian Ocean at the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) since April 2023. Luthando served as the Head of Conservation at South African National Parks (SANParks) before joining WCS. Luthando is passionate about exploring innovative finance options for conservation of species and the habits that protect them. He was involved in the pioneering South African Rhino Conservation Bond and is currently leading a WCS team supporting the development of the Wildlife Conservation Bond for Rwanda. Luthando is involved in several international science committees and advisory boards including as the co-chair of the Multidisciplinary Expert Panel for the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), Advisory Board Member of Wits University’s Global Change Institute, Board of Trustees Member for the Endangered Wildlife Trust, Leadership for Conservation in Africa Board Member and WWF Netherlands Board Member.