External Communications Associate

Macy's
$94,200.00 - $156,960.00 / yr
paid time off, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, 401(k)
United States, New York, New York
Jul 10, 2026
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. and helps execute integrated communications and public relations strategies that bring the Macy's story to life nationwide. This role may focus on either operations or brand communications, partnering across the business to support media relations, storytelling, and reputation management. In the operations-focused capacity, the Associate supports communications across stores, supply chain, and Culture and HR initiatives, including store-related programs, thought leadership opportunities, and stories that highlight the colleague experience. This role also contributes to crisis communications and efforts that protect and strengthen the company's reputation. In the brand-focused capacity, the Associate supports brand campaigns, product launches, iconic events, and related storytelling that enhances visibility and engagement with customers and key audiences. Regardless of focus area, the Associate supports media relations efforts, manages inquiries, helps de-escalate issues, addresses public concerns, and contributes to protecting and strengthening the Macy's brand. What You Will Do * Strengthen the company's narrative by showcasing Macy's as a leading brand and retail innovator. * Develop and execute integrated short- and long-term communications strategies for key initiatives, including partnerships, collaborations, product launches, market expansions, consumer campaigns, and event activations that generate positive media coverage. * Build and maintain strong relationships with traditional and emerging media contacts, with a focus on national outlets and priority markets across the country. * Create, edit, and distribute press materials, media advisories, key messages, and other media assets, while proactively pitching stories and securing earned media opportunities. * Cultivate productive relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including company executives, brand and product leaders, civic partners, and nonprofit organizations. * Provide media training and strategic counsel to spokespeople, helping executives strengthen thought leadership and represent Macy's effectively at the national and local levels. * Navigate complex, fast-moving, and unexpected communications challenges while managing media interactions with professionalism and sound judgment. * Partner with the External Communications team to measure, analyze, and report media results through project-based and quarterly recaps. * Review internal and external communications materials to ensure consistency with Macy's brand, messaging, and business objectives. * Oversee the management of multimedia assets, including media websites, press materials, photography, and related resources. * Support budget planning, tracking, and administration for the External Communications team. * Lead and support crisis communications efforts, including proactive issue identification, risk mitigation, and response planning. * 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 major initiatives; this requires availability during evenings, weekends, and holidays. * Foster an environment of acceptance and respect that strengthens relationships, and ensures authentic connections with colleagues, customers, and communities. * In addition to the essential duties mentioned above, other duties may be assigned. 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 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 various 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 suite, media monitoring programs (Muckrack, Cision, Meltwater, Critical Mention, etc.), 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, making sound decisions and managing communications effectively. Personal Impact and Credibility: Strong personal impact with the ability to build relationships and establish credibility easily. Who You Are * Candidates with a bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience in a related field are encouraged to apply. 5+ years of experience in public relations, media relations, communications, or a related field. Prior retail experience a plus. * This role involves performing essential job functions such as communication, collaboration, and use of office and computer systems. Responsibilities include the ability to access and review written and electronic information, and to move within the work environment and interact with workplace materials as needed to carry out job responsibilities. * Able to work a flexible schedule based on department and company needs. * Able to travel occasionally for local and national events and media opportunities. What We Can Offer You Join a team where work is as rewarding as it is fun! We offer a dynamic, inclusive environment with competitive pay and benefits. Enjoy comprehensive health and wellness coverage and a 401(k) match to invest in your future. Prioritize your well-being with paid time off and eight paid holidays. Grow your career with continuous learning and leadership development. Plus, build community by joining one of our Colleague Resource Groups and make a difference through our 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 Access the full menu of benefits offerings [here](https://employeeconnection.net/CareerSiteMedia/2024_2025_Professional_BAAG_Macys_Bloomingdales.pdf). 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 to outfit our customers, 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. [CORP00]() This position may be eligible for performance-based incentives/bonuses. Benefits include 401k, medical/vision/dental/life/disability insurance options, PTO accruals, Holidays, and more. Eligibility requirements may apply based on location, job level, classification, and length of employment. Additional benefit details are available at macysJOBS.com.