Rumi Naito

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

SKILLS

ABOUT RUMI NAITO

I am an interdisciplinary social scientist with over 15 years of experience designing and leading community-driven, rights-based conservation and climate initiatives across Indonesia, Tanzania, Canada, and the U.S. My work centers on understanding and supporting the complex land-use decisions local communities face, and translating that knowledge into impactful, evidence-based strategies. I have collaborated with NGOs, bilateral and multilateral funders, governments, and indigenous communities to co-create full-cycle projects — from early design through implementation and impact evaluation. Skilled in both quantitative and qualitative methods, I use research to inform behavior change, strengthen policy, and guide strategic investments and interventions that drive meaningful environmental and social outcomes. My ability to build trusted partnerships across sectors and communicate insights in accessible, actionable ways has been central to aligning diverse stakeholders around shared goals. I have a PhD in Resources, Environment and Sustainability from The University of British Columbia. Prior to my current position, I focused on designing climate mitigation and adaptation projects and promoting sustainable forest management in Indonesia for 10 years.