Freelance Communication Expert

Lead Expert, Communication Department Transformation BlueprintClient: Confidential – Leading Belgian Insurance & Financial Services GroupProject: Communication Department Transformation BlueprintLocation: Brussels (Hybrid: on-site and remote)Start Date: Q1 2026About the ProjectA leading insurance and financial services group in Belgium is launching a strategic initiative to design the Communication Department of the Future (2026 Blueprint).The group's communication function — a centralized department of approximately 25 professionals — plays a critical role in brand positioning, stakeholder engagement, and business support across multiple brands.The project aims to transform the department from a task-driven to a results-driven organization, integrating AI, data, and new technologies to enhance efficiency, creativity, and impact.Role OverviewThe organization is seeking an experienced Lead Expert to conduct a comprehensive assessment and design the future blueprint of its Communication Department.The consultant will act as a strategic advisor, leading stakeholder interviews, analyzing structures and processes, and developing a pragmatic roadmap toward a modern, high-performing communication organization.This role combines organizational design, strategic communication insight, and change management expertise, with a strong focus on measurable impact and digital transformation.Key Responsibilities1. Determine the ScopeAlign objectives and project scope with the communication leadership team.Map key stakeholders and establish an interview and engagement plan.Define the project's governance, communication, and reporting process.2. Diagnose & UnderstandConduct interviews and workshops with internal stakeholders and external partners.Evaluate team structure, roles, skills, workflows, tools, and performance metrics.Benchmark the current organization against best-in-class communication functions in the Belgian and European markets.Produce a diagnostic report highlighting key strengths, pain points, and opportunities.3. Design the FutureDevelop the Blueprint for the 2026 Communication Department, covering:Organizational design (structure, governance, reporting lines)Role definitions, responsibilities, and competency frameworksProcess and workflow optimizationIntegration of AI, automation, and analytics toolsFacilitate iteration and validation with the project sponsor and leadership team.4. Plan the ChangeBuild a phased implementation roadmap, detailing milestones, dependencies, and resource needs.Identify quick wins alongside long-term structural improvements.Recommend enablers for success: leadership alignment, training, tools, and change management actions.5. Enable & MobilizeDesign an internal communication and engagement plan to ensure buy-in across the team.Propose learning and development paths to strengthen future capabilities.Support leadership in preparing the execution phase planned for 2027.Profile & QualificationsRequired Experience10+ years of experience in strategic communication, marketing transformation, or organizational design.Proven expertise in structuring or redesigning communication or marketing departments.Strong understanding of AI, data analytics, and automation tools applied to communication.Demonstrated experience in stakeholder facilitation, assessments, and change management.Excellent analytical, conceptual, and communication skills.Fluency in English and French and/or Dutch.Preferred ExperienceBackground in the insurance or financial services sector (or other regulated industries).Knowledge of communication performance measurement and ROI frameworks.Experience collaborating with executive leadership and HR transformation teams.Certification or training in change management or organizational design (e.g., Prosci, Kotter, HEC Executive Education).DeliverablesDiagnostic Report (current-state assessment and benchmarking)Communication Department 2026 Blueprint (structure, roles, processes, technology)Implementation Roadmap (phased plan with milestones and resources)Change & Capability RecommendationsExecutive Presentation for leadership validationSuccess FactorsStrong sponsorship from senior leadershipTransparent communication and involvement of the teamPragmatic and cost-conscious approachDelivery of early quick wins to demonstrate impact