Wildlife Conservation Society

Wildlife Conservation Society

The Wildlife Conservation Society was established in 1895 and operates today as an endowment-backed foundation with headquarters in the Bronx. Adam Falk assumed the role of President and CEO in 2025. The endowment supports conservation science, education, and direct land management rather than family wealth succession. WCS allocates 5.5 percent of assets to private equity and maintains confirmed exposure to hedge funds, private credit, real estate, and natural resources. Makena Capital Management serves as investment advisor. Confirmed positions include a limited partnership in Makena Endowment Portfolio. Geographic reach covers North America, Africa, Asia, and South America through both direct holdings and co-investments with partners such as USAID, Bloomberg Philanthropies, and the Waitt Foundation. Asset classes also include early-stage venture and distressed turnaround opportunities. The organization employs 4051 professionals and maintains additional vehicles including WCS Canada and the Climate Adaptation Fund. It participates in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and holds leadership roles within the International Union for Conservation of Nature. September 2024: Delivered remarks at the IUCN Regional Conservation Forum in Bruges on scaling finance for tropical forests. WCS issues non-taxable revenue bonds through its own credit structure and maintains a dedicated endowment sleeve that sits alongside operating businesses such as the New York Aquarium and Prospect Park Zoo. This hybrid architecture separates grant-making and land stewardship from investment execution handled by external advisors.