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 are part of what makes this such a special place to work.

Job Overview

The Associate, External Communications supports communications for Macy’s and Macy’s, Inc. These positions will be focused on operations and brand. The positions will help to execute integrated communications and public relations strategies that bring the Macy’s narrative to life nationwide. The operations-focused role supports communications across stores, supply chain, and Culture and HR initiatives, including key store-related initiatives, thought leadership, and storytelling that highlights the colleague experience, while also playing a role in crisis communications and reputation management. The brand and product role will focus on brand campaigns and events, product launches, iconic events and related storytelling. Both roles support media relations and help protect the Macy’s brand by managing inquiries, de-escalating issues, and addressing public concerns.

What You Will Do

• Enhance the company’s storytelling to showcase why Macy’s is a leading brand and 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 strong relationships with internal and external leadership, including company executives, brand and product 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 regularly (quarterly and by project).
• Review internal and external communications materials to ensure alignment with the organization's overall mission and goals.
• Oversee management of multimedia assets including media websites, media materials and photography.
• Assist in managing 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, 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 co