External Communications Manager

Debenhams Group; Manchester; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A retail company in Manchester seeks a Communications Manager to support external communications activity. The role involves developing the company's narrative, managing media inquiries, and producing high-quality content. Ideal candidates possess strong experience in external communications, excellent writing skills, and stakeholder management acumen. The position demands a proactive and organized individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment. The organization values diversity and provides competitive benefits, including bonuses and wellness programs.

Benefits

Highly competitive bonus scheme

Company pension

Access to on-site gym

20% discount across all brands

Comprehensive wellbeing package

Ongoing learning and development

Qualifications

• Strong experience in external communications, ideally in retail or a fast-moving consumer environment.
• Proven ability to execute effective communications plans and produce high-quality written content.
• Comfortable working on sensitive or confidential issues with sound judgement.

Responsibilities

• Support the development and delivery of the Group’s external narrative.
• Manage day‑to‑day media enquiries and coordinate with PR agencies.
• Draft press releases, statements, and briefing materials for senior leaders.

Skills

External communications experience

High-quality written content production

Excellent writing and editorial skills

Stakeholder management skills

Media relations knowledge

Job description

THE ROLE

We are looking for a talented Communications Manager to support the delivery of our external communications activity across all channels. Working closely with senior leaders and cross-functional teams, you will help ensure our voice is aligned, engaging, and reflective of our values and commercial goals.

This role is based in our central Manchester office.

THE CHALLENGE

Following structural change and brand repositioning, the focus now is on bringing clarity and consistency to how we communicate externally and strengthening our reputation in the market.

• Strengthen our brand narrative
• Support recruitment and retention through strong employer brand storytelling
• Build pride in our direction and ambition
• Enhance visibility of our strategy, values, and leadership externally

WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING

You will support the implementation of external communications plans across Debenhams Group, ensuring our story is clearly told and well understood. You will be hands‑on in developing content, managing media activity, and supporting leaders with day‑to‑day external communications needs.

Key Responsibilities

External Communications

• Support the development and delivery of the Group’s external narrative, ensuring it reflects our values and strategy.
• Manage day‑to‑day media enquiries and coordinate with PR agencies where required.
• Draft press releases, statements, Q&A, and briefing materials for senior leaders.
• Support external speaking opportunities and thought‑leadership content for the leadership team.
• Work with Marketing, Brand, and Social Media teams to ensure message consistency across all external touchpoints.

Reputation & Issues Management

• Support the preparation of responses to reputation‑sensitive issues, working alongside Legal, People, and senior colleagues.
• Maintain guidance documents, holding statements, and scenario plans.
• Escalate risks appropriately and provide clear, timely information to relevant stakeholders.

WHAT WE LOOK FOR

Skills & Experience

• Strong experience in external communications, ideally in retail or a fast‑moving consumer environment.
• Proven ability to execute effective communications plans and produce high‑quality written content.
• Excellent writing and editorial skills, with the ability to simplify complex messages.
• Comfortable working on sensitive or confidential issues with sound judgement.
• Strong stakeholder management skills and the ability to build relationships at all levels.
• Knowledge of media relations and an understanding of the media landscape.
• Proactive, organised, and hands‑on — confident in delivering both content and day‑to‑day communications activity.

WORKING WITH US

At Debenhams Group, we thrive on change, innovation and pace. Every challenge is an opportunity, and every day is a chance to push boundaries. If you embrace the unknown, thrive in a fast‑moving, high‑growth environment and want to shape the future of retail, you’ll feel right at home here.

We’re looking for visionaries, disruptors and doers; people who bring fresh thinking, relentless energy and the drive to make an impact.

WHY JOIN US

Our mission is to create a workplace where everyone is respected, individual differences are valued, and people can be themselves at work — without exception.

2025 was a year of significant change for the Group. 2026 is about bold moves, real results and unstoppable momentum. If that excites you, you belong at Debenhams Group.

Our benefits include (subject to level and eligibility):

• Highly competitive bonus scheme, company pension, share schemes, private medical cover and life assurance
• Access to an on‑site gym and free weekly Pilates, yoga and fitness classes
• 20% discount across all brands
• Comprehensive wellbeing package
• Dog‑friendly offices (in selected locations)
• Ongoing learning and development with strong internal progression
• On‑site canteen serving breakfast, lunch, snacks and hot drinks
• Free season ticket loan

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