Ashraful Haque is a nationally recognized leader in forestry, biodiversity, climate adaptation, and nature-based solutions, with over 17 years of experience in ecosystem restoration, protected area management, sustainable fisheries, WASH, disaster risk reduction, and community-based natural resource management across Bangladesh and the region. From starting his career on the forest frontlines to managing USD 120M+ in complex donor portfolios, his journey reflects a rare blend of grassroots insight and high-level leadership.

He has served as Environment Specialist at USAID, overseeing some of the Mission’s largest environment and resilience programs; as Country Lead for the U.S. Forest Service, forging U.S.–Bangladesh science and policy partnerships; and in a key role at IUCN, where he authored a national-level conservation Action Plan. Earlier, at WildTeam, he pioneered the award-winning Village Tiger Response Team model—now one of the most celebrated community-based conservation initiatives in the country.

Ashraful holds a Master’s in Development Studies and a Bachelor’s in Forestry. He is an elected member of the National Executive Committee of the Institution of Foresters, Bangladesh, the apex professional body in the sector. A distinguished International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) alumnus—the U.S. Department of State’s premier professional exchange—Ashraful is also the recipient of multiple national and U.S. Government honors, including USAID’s Mission Honor Award. He is known for bridging science with practice, turning ecological priorities into policy-backed, community-led solutions that build lasting resilience for people and nature.