Senior Manager, External Communications

Role Purpose The Senior Manager, External Communications is responsible for leading strategic external communications and media engagement for Freshfields' market-leading platform. Supporting practices including M&A, Private Capital, Capital Markets, and Tax, the role develops and executes proactive communications programs that enhance the firm's reputation, elevate partner visibility, and strengthen Freshfields' position as the leading adviser on the transactions shaping business, markets, and the global economy. Working closely with partners, practice leaders, Business Development teams, and Brand & Communications colleagues, the role translates complex legal matters, market developments, and client successes into compelling narratives that reinforce Freshfields' distinctive market position. Key Responsibilities Strategic Communications Planning Develop and deliver integrated external communications strategies for key practice areas, including M&A, Private Capital, Capital Markets, and Tax. Align communications plans with firm strategy, market opportunities, reputational objectives, and business development priorities. Identify and prioritize opportunities that strengthen Freshfields' visibility and influence across clients, media, and broader stakeholder audiences. Support the development of annual communications plans and practice visibility strategies. Media Relations & Reputation Building Build and maintain strong relationships with key journalists, editors, commentators, and influencers across legal, financial, business, and trade media. Proactively generate media opportunities that elevate partner visibility and showcase the firm's market-leading work. Develop media strategies around significant transactions, legal developments, market trends, lateral recruitment and thought leadership initiatives. Manage media engagement processes, briefings, interviews, and outreach activities. Act as a trusted communications advisor to partners and practice leaders. Thought Leadership & Content Development Work with lawyers, Business Development and subject matter experts to identify relevant market themes and thought leadership opportunities. Translate complex legal, regulatory, financial, and transactional developments into engaging, market-facing content. Develop commentary, opinion pieces, executive positioning content, media materials, and campaign assets. Support integrated activation across earned, owned, and digital channels. Strategic Counsel & Stakeholder Management Advise partners on media engagement, executive positioning, and reputation-building opportunities. Coach spokespersons and support preparation for interviews, speaking engagements, and commentary opportunities. Build strong relationships with partners, practice leaders, Business Development teams, and communications colleagues. Ensure communications activity aligns with wider firm messaging, brand standards, and strategic objectives. Market Intelligence & Measurement Monitor transaction markets, competitive activity, emerging issues, and industry developments to identify communications opportunities. Analyze media coverage, stakeholder sentiment, and communications performance. Produce regular reporting and insights demonstrating the contribution of communications activity to business and reputational objectives. Use insight and data to optimize communications strategy and improve outcomes. Success Measures Increased quality and volume of positive media coverage across core practices. Enhanced visibility and market profile of key partners and practice leaders. Increased share of voice in priority media and market conversations. Strong execution of thought leadership and executive positioning programs. Positive stakeholder feedback from practice leadership and business partners. Demonstrable contribution to reputation, market awareness, and growth objectives. Skills & Experience Required Experience Substantial experience in media relations, corporate communicati