Niki Rust

Background

About Niki Rust

I am not here to tick boxes, greenwash or maintain the status quo. I'm here to create a better, more regenerative world for people and the planet. I'm an ambitious, strategic sustainability leader with 15+ years of global experience across public, NGO, think tank, intergovernmental and private sectors, specialising in advancing net zero, climate resilience, nature recovery, and environmental sustainability from a local to global scale. Proven track record leading large-scale environmental programmes, mobilising resources, and fostering global partnerships to meet multilateral environment commitments, including those under the Paris Agreement. Skilled in cross-sector collaboration with governments, NGOs, and private sectors to deliver strategic environmental goals. Strong expertise in UN frameworks CBD) and global governance of climate and nature issues.• Leadership: Successfully built and managed cross-functional, diverse teams to achieve ambitious climate and biodiversity goals in complex environments.• Strategy & Vision: Expert in developing and implementing sustainability frameworks, policies, and strategies to drive Net Zero, resilient, and nature-positive outcomes.• Global Collaboration: Experience working with international bodies such as the IUCN and IATA, and partnering with diverse stakeholders including government bodies, private sector C-suites, and local communities to influence policies and foster collaboration.• Data-Driven Insights: Skilled in leveraging robust data analysis, scientific evidence, and KPIs to influence policy, shape decisions, and communicate environmental impact to high-level stakeholders.• Financial & Budget Management: Proven ability to secure and manage multi-million-pound budgets, raising funds through grants, sponsorships, and revenue generation.• Policy & Advocacy: Track record of contributing to national and international policies on climate, conservation, and sustainability through advisory and advocacy roles.