External Communications Associate

Be part of an amazing story.
Macy’s is more than just a store. We’re a story. One that’s captured the hearts and minds of America for more than 160 years. A story about innovations and traditions, about inspiring stores and irresistible products, about the excitement of the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks and the wonder of the Thanksgiving Day Parade. We’ve been part of memorable moments and milestones for countless customers and colleagues. Those stories make this a special place to work.

Job Overview
The Associate, External Communications supports communications for Macy’s and Macy’s, Inc. This dual‑focus role involves operations and brand functions. Operations responsibilities include communications across stores, supply chain, Culture and HR initiatives, key store‑related initiatives, thought leadership, storytelling that highlights the colleague experience, and crisis communications. The brand and product responsibilities focus on brand campaigns and events, product launches, iconic events, and related storytelling. Both facets support media relations, protect the brand by managing inquiries, de‑escalating issues, and addressing public concerns.

What You Will Do

Enhance Macy’s storytelling to showcase the brand as a leading retail innovator.

Develop and execute short‑ and long‑term strategies for key company initiatives such as new partnerships, collaborations, launches, expansions, consumer campaigns and event activations 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, media advisories and messaging, manage new media content development, and pitch stories for ongoing placements.

Cultivate relationships with internal and external leadership, including company executives, brand and product leadership, civic partners, and non‑profit organizations.

Provide media training for spokespeople and support key company executives in representing Macy’s nationally.

Manage complex, fast‑moving communications challenges and media interactions effectively.

Collaborate with the External Communications Team to recap media results regularly (quarterly and by project).

Review internal and external communications materials to ensure alignment with the organization’s mission and goals.

Oversee multimedia asset management, including media websites, materials and photography.

Assist in managing the team budget.

Lead and support crisis management and proactive crisis mitigation efforts.

Foster an environment of acceptance and respect that strengthens relationships and ensures authentic connections with colleagues, customers, and communities.

Provide on‑site support for key enterprise events, including the Macy’s Flower Show, Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Black Friday, and other initiatives; this requires availability on nights, weekends and national holidays.

Skills You Will Need
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, 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 and oversee budgets and communication initiatives effectively.

Crisis Management
Experience in handling crisis communication and media interactions related to events, 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
Experience with Microsoft Office, media monitoring programs (Muckrack, Cision, Meltwater, Critical Mention), Canva, SquareSpace 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, make sound decisions and manage communications effectively.

Personal Impact and Credibility
Strong personal impact with the ability to build relationships and establish credibility easily.

Who You Are

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in a related field and at least 5+ years of experience in public relations, media relations, communications, or a related field. Prior retail experience is a plus.

Must be able to perform essential job functions that involve communication, collaboration and use of office and computer systems; review written and electronic information and move within the work environment to carry out responsibilities.

Ability to work a flexible schedule based on department and company needs, including regular travel to Herald Square offices.

Occasional travel for local and national events and media opportunities.

What We Can Offer You
We offer a dynamic, inclusive environment with competitive pay and benefits. Enjoy comprehensive health and wellness coverage, a 401(k) match, paid time off and eight paid holidays, continuous learning and leadership development, and the chance to join Colleague Resource Groups and volunteer opportunities.

Some Additional Benefits We Offer Include

Merchandise discounts

Performance‑based incentives

Annual merit review

Employee Assistance Program with mental health counseling and legal/financial advice

Tuition reimbursement

About Us
This is a great time to join Macy’s. Whether you’re helping a customer find the perfect gift, streamlining operations in one of our distribution centers, enhancing our online shopping experience, buying in‑style and on‑trend merchandise, or designing a balloon for the Thanksgiving Day Parade, we offer unique opportunities to be part of some of the most memorable moments in people’s lives.

Join us and help write the next chapter in our story – apply today!
This job description is not all‑inclusive. Macy’s, Inc. reserves the right to amend this job description at any time. Macy’s, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment.

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