Freelance Program Manager

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Freelance Program Manager to support one of the most recognized and trusted names in financial services. This is a remote freelance role running from June 29 through September 31, 2026.

Requirements

• Proven experience leading large-scale digital programs from strategy through creative development and production, across multiple channels and workstreams
• Demonstrated ability to manage multi-project portfolios with overlapping schedules, budgets, and stakeholder groups
• Navigating senior client relationships, serving as a strategic partner and trusted advisor rather than a task manager
• Deep understanding of agency operations and delivery practices, including scope management, resourcing, and financial stewardship
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills; able to bring clarity to ambiguity and order to complex engagements
• Exceptional communication and collaboration skills, fostering productive dialogue across internal teams, partners, and client organizations
• Experience with Agile, Waterfall, and hybrid delivery methods, adapting process to the needs of each engagement
• Proficiency with Jira, Confluence, Smartsheet, and other project management tools
• Comfortable facilitating discussions with senior stakeholders and leading cross-functional teams that may include strategy, UX, design, technology, and media disciplines

Qualifications

• A proactive, hands-on leader who brings both strategic perspective and operational excellence
• Comfortable in fast-paced, high-stakes environments; maintains composure and clarity under pressure
• Adept at building trusted relationships, communicating candidly, and championing the best interests of both the client and AKQA team
• Empathetic, inclusive, and collaborative, promoting a team-first mindset across all partners
• Thoughtful in approach and resilient in execution, with a continuous improvement mindset
• Passionate about creating conditions that elevate creativity, quality, and collaboration

Qualities and Characteristics

• A proactive, hands-on leader who brings both strategic perspective and operational excellence
• Comfortable in fast-paced, high-stakes environments; maintains composure and clarity under pressure
• Adept at building trusted relationships, communicating candidly, and championing the best interests of both the client and AKQA team
• Empathetic, inclusive, and collaborative, promoting a team-first mindset across all partners
• Thoughtful in approach and resilient in execution, with a continuous improvement mindset
• Passionate about shaping and delivering exceptional work that moves people and businesses forward

Pay

$3,000- $4,000 per week

Schedule

40 hours/week

Core Working Hours

Core working hours are PST

About AKQA

We are part of WPP, a trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands. AKQA believes in the imaginative application of art and science to create beautiful ideas, products, and services. We design adaptive digital services and applications that capture the imagination, delivering impressive returns for our clients.