External Communications Associate - Stores

Bring Your Amazing Self to Work

At Macy's, Inc. we're on a mission to create a brighter future with bold representation for all. This is our Mission Every One. We know that each person here is unique. So we respect and invest in each individual to create growth, pride, and satisfaction. If we are able to bring our whole selves to work, it translates into a more abundant and wider array of ideas and energy for all to benefit from. Our success will be built on amazing colleagues, working together.

Job Overview

The Associate, External Communications primarily supports the national and local branding of Macy’s stores. They help create and execute an integrated communications and public relations strategy that brings the Macy’s narrative to life through key store-related and local supply chain initiatives, such as new store openings, expansions, community events, initiative-based launches, and crisis communication. This role is embedded within a team that manages both internal and external communications across the organization. This role is hybrid, based in New York City. 

What You Will Do

• Develop and implement both short- and long-term strategies for key company initiatives related to stores and distribution centers (e.g., new store openings, expansions, small formats, hiring initiatives), aimed at generating positive media coverage.
• Build and maintain strong, productive relationships with both traditional and non-traditional media contacts, focusing on national media and key priority markets.
• Create and edit press materials, media advisories, and manage new media content development, ensuring ongoing media placements.
• Cultivate strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including company and store leadership, civic organizations, and non-profit partners.
• Media-train spokespeople to represent Macy’s nationally and in key markets, with a focus on positioning company executives as thought leaders.
• Effectively manage complex and fast-moving communication challenges and media relations, responding to unexpected events.
• Collaborate with the External Communications Team to recap media results, providing reports quarterly and by project.
• Review internal and external communications materials to ensure consistency with the organization's mission and goals.
• Assist in managing the budget for the Stores communications pillar.
• Oversee multimedia websites related to brand, product, and store-based initiatives.
• Handle real estate communications, including store closures.
• Manage crisis communication, including responses to store incidents and natural disasters.

Skills You Will Need

Strategic Thinking and Planning: Ability to develop and implement short- and long-term communication strategies that align with company goals, particularly in store and distribution center initiatives.

Innovative and Proactive Mindset: Creative, forward-thinking approach to developing communication strategies and solving challenges.

Media Relations Expertise: Proven success in working with reporters and media outlets, with strong contacts in consumer, business, print, broadcast, and online platforms. Ability to pitch and secure positive media coverage.

Excellent Written and Verbal Communication: Strong ability to write press materials, media advisories, executive messaging, and public relations content with clarity, conciseness, and a storytelling approach.

Crisis Management Skills: Ability to handle fast-moving, unexpected communication challenges, including crisis communications such as store incidents or natural disasters.

Collaboration and Relationship Building: Strong interpersonal skills to build and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including media, company leadership, and civic partners.

Media Training: Experience in preparing and coaching spokespeople to effectively represent the company and position executives as thought leaders.

Organizational Skills: Excellent organizational ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Strong attention to detail for editing and content accuracy.

Problem-Solving Abilities: Proactive approach to identifying potential issues, mitigating risks, and making sound decisions with minimal supervision.

Technological Proficiency: Advanced skills in Microsoft Office, media monitoring tools, social media platforms, and multimedia content management.

Ability to Work Under Pressure: Poise and professionalism when managing time-sensitive situations, maintaining grace under pressure.

Team Player: Strong collaborative skills, able to work wit