Posted on October, 01 2025
Vientiane, Laos, 1 October 2025 – Heron Holloway has been appointed as the new Country Director of WWF-Laos, officially beginning in her role on 1 October 2025.
She succeeds outgoing Country Director Loris Palentini and takes on the position at a pivotal moment, as WWF-Laos launches its new strategic plan for 2025-2030. In this role, she will focus on strengthening partnerships and advancing the collective conservation approaches that remain central to WWF-Laos' work.
Reflecting on her appointment, Heron said:
“I am energised and deeply honoured to take on this role. WWF-Laos’ vision of a vibrant and sustainable Lao PDR, where people and nature thrive together, inspires me greatly. I look forward to working with our partners and communities to drive innovative conservation that safeguards biodiversity, ensures fair and equitable benefits, and builds a lasting balance between human prosperity and natural heritage.”
Heron brings more than 20 years of experience in the non-profit sector across Asia and Africa, with expertise spanning policy, international relations, sociology, environmental issues, and advocacy. Before this appointment, she served as WWF’s Head of Advocacy and Communications for Asia-Pacific, where she led regional initiatives to influence policy and strengthen conservation impact. She was previously Chief Executive Officer of Habitat for Humanity Hong Kong.
Born in the United Kingdom but having lived most of her life in Asia, Heron combines regional knowledge with practical experience that closely aligns with WWF-Laos’ priorities. Her familiarity with WWF’s programmes in Laos will be invaluable in guiding the team, deepening partnerships, and advancing conservation goals in the years ahead.
Heron holds a Master’s in International Relations and a Bachelor’s in Anthropology and Sociology, both from the University of Durham, United Kingdom.
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Learn more about WWF-Laos:
Website: www.wwf.org.la | Email: wwf-laos@wwf.org.la
