Dr. Munir Virani was born and raised in Nairobi Kenya and is a global leader in raptor research and conservation with over 25 years of experience in developing innovative and effective solutions to protect birds of prey and their habitats. He is currently the CEO of the Mohamed Bin Zayed Raptor Conservation Fund, launched in 2018 by HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi. The goal of the Fund is to conserve raptors around the world as critical elements of ecosystems, by ensuring that these magnificent birds continue to thrive for future generations to cherish.

Prior to this, Munir was the Executive Vice President for The Peregrine Fund - World Center for Birds of Prey based in the United States. With a focus on birds of prey as apex predators and indicators of ecosystem health, combined with an ability for creative and collaborative conservation ventures, Munir has conducted extensive and impactful conservation work across four continents, from East Africa to Central America, South Asia, the Caribbean Islands and Mongolia. He is a strategic thinker and skilled fundraiser, having raised significant financial gifts for bird of prey conservation, including his work on critically endangered vultures in Kenya which earned him the prestigious “Green Oscar” Award from the Whitley Fund for Nature. He is widely published with over 150 scientific publications.

As a wildlife photographer, award-winning filmmaker, and accomplished speaker, Munir's passion for nature and conservation shines through in his work. He is deeply invested in developing collaborative partnerships and conservation leadership around the world, and is committed to ensuring nature-positive solutions for the energy sector and promoting climate and nature-based solutions.