PanNature Appoints New Deputy Director for Programs

PanNature – People and Nature Reconciliation is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Nguyen The Cuong as Deputy Director for Programs, effective May 19, 2025. This marks an important step in strengthening PanNature’s leadership team to meet new organizational priorities and prepare for the next stage of development, as the organization approaches its 20th anniversary in January 2026.

With over 20 years of professional experience in forestry, biodiversity conservation, and community development, and a proven track record in program leadership, Mr. Cuong is expected to play a key role in guiding PanNature’s core program areas. He holds a Master’s degree in Forestry from Vietnam National University of Forestry and has served in program coordination and management roles at FAO, TRAFFIC, SRD, IUCN, ZSPC, and FFI. He has also contributed as a technical expert and consultant for various organizations including WWF, ChildFund, GIZ, RECOFTC, GfA, and SA…

His career reflects a strong commitment to nature conservation and sustainable development through a wide range of efforts—supporting the formulation of forestry and biodiversity policies, developing livelihood models for forest-dependent communities, conducting environmental and social impact assessments for forestry companies, and training over 3,000 forestry rangers, environmental police, and customs officers on biodiversity conservation, sustainable forest management, biodiversity monitoring and investigation, and legal timber trade.

As Deputy Director, Mr. Cuong will oversee PanNature’s key program areas, including Ecosystem Restoration, Conservation & Communities, and Business & Policy Engagement. He will directly lead the Conservation & Communities Department, promoting initiatives that integrate biodiversity conservation with sustainable livelihoods and community-based natural resource co-management models.

Mr. Cuong’s deep understanding of Vietnam’s forestry policy landscape, coupled with his strengths in strategic planning and partnership building, will be instrumental in advancing PanNature’s mission to promote sustainable development and environmental protection. His ability to connect conservation objectives with community needs and policy advocacy is a valuable asset to our leadership team.

PanNature warmly welcomes Mr. Nguyen The Cuong to the organization. We look forward to the positive and lasting impact he will bring to our programs and our mission.