Freelance Senior Communications Manager [210568]

We are seeking an experienced Senior Communications Manager to provide freelance support on a series of high-priority communications projects between June and October 2026 – 3 DAYS PER WEEK

This role will lead the development and delivery of strategic communications initiatives that support organisational priorities, executive thought leadership, and key global engagement opportunities.

Ideally you will have experience working within the health sector, science, or with charities

The successful candidate will bring strong strategic communications expertise, exceptional writing and stakeholder management skills, and experience operating in complex international environments across health, science, research, policy, or philanthropic sectors.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and delivery of communications strategies and projects aligned with organisational priorities.
• Develop thought-leadership content and positioning for members of the clients Executive Committee.
• Create and refine core messaging, narratives, and communications materials that articulate strategic direction and future ambitions.
• Shape and execute communications plans for major organisational and global moments,
• Produce high-quality communications materials, including:
• Press and media materials
• Feature articles and opinion pieces
• Stakeholder communications
• Briefings and messaging documents
• Policy-aligned communications content
  
  

Support Communications Activity Across Priority Themes, Including

• Global health reform
• Health equity
• Data and artificial intelligence
• Research and development (R&D) investment
• Review and strengthen external communications plans and approaches
  
  

Advance Communications Workstreams Related To Initiatives Such As

• India Alliance
• Science Policy Labs
• Investment communications
  
  

Collaborate effectively with senior leaders and cross-functional teams to ensure consistency and impact across communications outputs.

Essential Skills And Experience

• Significant experience in senior communications, public affairs, strategic communications, or media relations roles.
• Demonstrated success developing executive thought leadership and organisational messaging.
• Excellent writing, editing, and storytelling skills for diverse audiences.
• Experience delivering communications around complex policy, science, health, research, or innovation topics.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines simultaneously.
• Experience supporting high-profile events, campaigns, or international engagement opportunities.
• Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills.
  
  

This is an exciting opportunity for a senior communications professional to contribute to a range of high-impact initiatives, helping to shape narratives and engagement around some of the most important issues in global health, science, and innovation.

Client Description

Our client is a charitable foundation based in the United Kingdom dedicated to improving health and well-being globally. It is one of the largest non-governmental funders of biomedical research. They support scientific advancements, fosters innovation, and invests in initiatives that aim to tackle pressing health challenges around the world.

Aquent is dedicated to improving inclusivity & is proudly an equal opportunities employer. We encourage applications from under-represented groups & are committed to providing support to applicants with disabilities. We aim to provide reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, to those with a medical condition, disability or neurodivergence.