Partnerships Lead

Debenhams; Manchester; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Debenhams is looking for a Partnerships Lead to shape the brand's visibility and engagement through PR, influencer marketing, and strategic collaborations. This high-impact role demands creativity, leadership, and a proven ability to drive results in a fast-paced retail environment.

Benefits

40% discount on all brands

Flexible core hours

Wellbeing benefits

Vibrant social calendar

Qualifications

• 5+ years in brand marketing, partnerships, PR, or influencer strategy.
• Track record of creating buzz-worthy campaigns.
• Exceptional media and influencer contacts.

Responsibilities

• Own the daily running of the Debenhams press office.
• Bring the brand to life with in-person moments.
• Shape and lead our influencer strategy.

Skills

Brand marketing

Partnerships

PR

Influencer strategy

Leadership

Creativity

Job description

Description

You know the name. You know the legacy. From our high street roots to redefining retail since 1778, Debenhams has always been more than just a department store—we’ve been a household name, a style destination, and a trendsetter.

Fast forward to today: Debenhams is Britain’s Leading Online Department Store, with bold ambitions and a fresh digital-first mindset. We’re not “back”—we’ve never left. We’ve simply evolved. And now, we’re writing the next chapter. Want to be part of it?

Britain needs Debenhams… and Debenhams needs you!

Your Team: Powering Partnerships, Creating Culture

The Partnerships team is where energy meets imagination. We bring the Debenhams brand to life - online, on-screen, and in real life. Over the past year alone, we’ve delivered our first global influencer trip, hosted unforgettable events like Partner Day and Debenhams Day Spa, and kept our name in lights with standout media coverage.

Led by our forward-thinking Partnerships Lead, the team includes an Events Manager, Partnerships Manager, Senior Executive, two Executives, and an Assistant. It’s a collaborative, high-performing unit that thrives on impact, creativity, and connection.

Your Role

This is your chance to shape how the world sees Debenhams. As Partnerships Lead, you’ll sit at the intersection of brand storytelling, PR, influencer engagement, and strategic collaborations.

You’ll report to the Head of Partnerships and lead a multi-talented team to deliver high-impact campaigns, unforgettable events, and authentic brand partnerships that drive engagement, elevate perception, and deliver results.

What You'll Be Doing

PR & Communications

• Own the daily running of the Debenhams press office.
• Drive an “always-on” strategy with our PR agency and internal team.
• Secure top-tier media coverage, thought leadership, and product placement.
  
  

Events & Activations

• Bring our brand to life with compelling in-person moments—think launches, pop-ups, and seasonal showcases.
• Oversee VIP and media attendance with the Events Manager to ensure flawless execution.
  
  

Influencer Marketing

• Shape and lead our influencer strategy across fashion, beauty, and home.
• Build long-term relationships with talent that truly reflect our brand.
• Manage gifting, paid collaborations, and content strategy alongside our Influencer Execs.
  
  

Brand Partnerships

• Identify and lead brand collabs that align with our customer’s lifestyle.
• Work cross-functionally with trade, buying, and brand teams to bring 360° campaigns to life.
  
  

Team Leadership

• Inspire, mentor, and develop a passionate team.
• Drive a culture of creativity, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Set clear goals, promote high standards, and celebrate success.
  
  

What You Can Bring

• 5+ years in brand marketing, partnerships, PR, or influencer strategy - ideally in fashion, beauty, or retail.
• A proven track record of creating buzz-worthy, culturally relevant campaigns.
• Exceptional media and influencer contacts.
• Strong leadership, agency management, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• A creative mind with commercial acumen and a finger firmly on the cultural pulse.
  
  

What To Expect From Here

• If we believe you could be a great fit for the role, we’ll invite you for an informal conversation via phone or Microsoft Teams with our Talent Acquisition Manager.
• If successful, you’ll then meet with the Head of Partnerships at Debenhams House to discuss your experience in more detail and explore the value you can bring to the team.
• Most of our hiring processes consist of two stages. You will meet with the head of partnerships to present a response to a brief - You may also be asked to meet with Senior Leadership
• We will conclude the process after this stage and feedback soon after your final meeting with a final decision.
  
  

Why Join Us?

• You’ll get the opportunity to take part in our various share schemes
• Core hours enable you to flex your working times around your needs on an ad hoc basis
• Benefits that support your health and wellbeing
• There’s up to 40% discount off our all of our brands
• Our social calendar? Next level
• With HQs in Manchester and London and offices across the globe (some are dog friendly!), we offer a buzzing atmosphere and the boohoo family culture wherever you work
  
  

#PARTNERSHIPS #DEBENHAMS