External Communications Associate – Brand and Product

Macy's•New York, NY

9h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Associate, External Communications supports national and local branding efforts for Macy’s stores. This role creates and executes integrated communications and public relations strategies that bring the Macy’s narrative to life across the country. They focus on key store-related and local supply chain business initiatives, including new store openings, expansions, local community events, initiative-based launches, and crisis communication. The Associate also works closely with the team to protect the Macy’s brand by managing media relations, de-escalating media emergencies, and addressing public issues related to stores nationwide.

Requirements

Storytelling and Communication: Ability to craft compelling narratives and develop integrated communication strategies that enhance Macy’s brand image. Strong command of language and writing for various materials including communications plans, press materials, and executive messaging.
Media Relations: Proven success in building and maintaining relationships with traditional and non-traditional media, including pitching stories and managing media interactions. Established contacts with consumer and business media outlets are highly desirable.
Strategic Thinking: Experience in developing short- and long-term communication strategies, including crisis management and handling complex communications challenges.
Interpersonal Skills: Strong ability to build and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including executives, store leadership, civic partners, and non-profits. Highly collaborative and effective in team settings.
Project Management: Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Experience in overseeing budgets and managing communication initiatives effectively.
Crisis Management: Experience in handling crisis communication and media interactions related to store incidents, natural disasters, and other unexpected challenges.
Creative and Proactive Thinking: Innovative and confident thinker with a proactive approach to problem-solving and issue mitigation.
Technical Proficiency: Advanced use of Microsoft Office suite, media monitoring programs, and social media channels.
Writing and Editing Skills: Strong ability to create and edit press materials, media advisories, and new media content. Skilled in developing concise and engaging content with a conversational voice.
Independent Work: Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, making sound decisions and managing communications effectively.
Personal Impact and Credibility: Strong personal impact with the ability to build relationships and establish credibility easily.

Nice To Haves

Prior retail experience a plus.

Responsibilities

Enhance the company’s storytelling to showcase why Macy’s is a leading brand, top employer, and retail innovator.
Develop and execute short- and long-term strategies for key company initiatives involving stores and distribution centers, such as new store openings, expansions, small-format stores, and hiring initiatives, to generate positive media coverage.
Build and maintain strong, productive relationships with traditional and non-traditional media contacts, focusing on national and priority media markets across all regions.
Create and edit press materials and media advisories, manage new media content development, and pitch stories for ongoing placements.
Cultivate strong relationships with internal and external leadership, including company executives, store leadership, civic partners, and non-profit organizations.
Provide media training for spokespeople, focusing on thought leadership for key company executives to represent Macy’s nationally and in their respective markets.
Manage complex, fast-moving, and unexpected communications challenges and media interactions effectively.
Collaborate with the External Communications Team to recap media results quarterly and by project.
Review internal and external communications materials to ensure alignment with the organization's overall mission and goals.
Assist in managing the budget for the Stores communications pillar.
Oversee multimedia websites for brand and store-based initiatives.
Address real estate-related communications, including store closures.
Lead crisis management efforts, including handling store incidents and natural disasters.
Foster an environment of acceptance and respect that strengthens relationships, and ensures authentic connections with colleagues, customers, and communities.

Benefits

Competitive pay and benefits
Comprehensive health and wellness coverage
401(k) match
Paid time off
Eight paid holidays
Continuous learning and leadership development
Colleague Resource Groups
Volunteer opportunities
Merchandise discounts
Performance-based incentives
Annual merit review
Employee Assistance Program with mental health counseling and legal/financial advice
Tuition reimbursement