About Alistair Reeves
In Memory of Alistair Reeves (1953–2026)
Alistair Reeves was a gifted communicator whose passion for languages, science and medicine shaped an exceptional career. After studying German, French and Spanish at Ealing College, he began working in medical language in 1977, joining Hoechst in Germany in 1979. He went on to lead clinical translation, medical writing and registration before becoming a respected freelance medical writer, editor and trainer.
A founding influence in the creation of EMWA, Alistair made an outstanding contribution to the association. He served as Conference Director (2012–2014), led the Freelance Business Forum, developed key publications and educational initiatives, and delivered more than 50 highly regarded workshops. In 2011, he received the Nick Thompson Fellowship in recognition of his dedication to EMWA.
Remembered for his intellectual integrity, precision, gentle humour and generosity, Alistair was a valued mentor who freely shared his knowledge and encouraged colleagues at every stage of their careers.
His lasting contribution helped shape both the medical writing profession and the EMWA community. The award established in his name honours his legacy and recognises those who continue to uphold the values he championed.
Alistair Reeves Award
EMWA is pleased to announce the establishment of the Alistair Reeves Award for Distinguished Contribution to Medical Communication, honouring the life and legacy of Alistair Reeves (1953–2026). The full terms of the award are as follows.
The award shall be known as the Alistair Reeves Award for Distinguished Contribution to Medical Communication. It recognises distinguished contribution to medical communication in any of its forms — written work, audiovisual and digital communication, education and training, advocacy and public communication, or innovation in any medium that advances the quality, clarity, or reach of medical communication. It honours achievement in the craft and standards of the profession itself, and sits between EMWA’s entry-level Geoff Hall Scholarship award and the Nick Thompson Fellowship for distinguished members.
Eligibility
The award is open to any individual, regardless of EMWA membership, nationality, or geographical location — including current or former EMWA members, members of other medical writing or communication organisations, medical journalists and broadcasters, academics, educators, and trainers, and any other individual whose contribution to medical communication has been distinguished. There is no restriction by career stage, sector, or medium.
Criteria for Selection
The award is given for contribution that is distinguished — not merely competent or long-standing — and that has measurably raised the quality, visibility, accessibility, or standards of medical communication. Selectors consider excellence and rigour, breadth or depth of influence, innovation, generosity of knowledge-sharing, and longevity or durability of impact, though exceptional contributions at any career stage are eligible.
An annual call for nominations is issued to the EMWA membership and published on the EMWA website. Nominations may be submitted by any current EMWA member, any member of the Executive Committee, or any Nick Thompson Fellow (self-nomination is not permitted), and must include a statement of no more than 500 words setting out the nominee’s contribution, together with at least one supporting statement from a second individual. Any supporting materials the nominator wishes to submit (published or broadcast works, workshop records, testimonials) are encouraged but not mandatory.
Frequency and Award Cycle
The award cycle is annual. EMWA is not obliged to make an award every year: if no nomination is judged to meet the standard of “distinguished contribution”, the award is not made that cycle. This provision is fundamental to the award’s prestige.
The Award
The recipient receives a struck medal with a two-tone gold and silver-tone finish, together with a citation setting out the grounds for the award. The Alistair Reeves Award is presented at the EMWA Spring Conference, with provision for remote participation where the recipient is unable to attend in person.
