Lead and deliver the regional communications strategy by developing and managing an integrated plan for Scotland and Wales, working closely with colleagues in retail, external and internal communications, public affairs, marketing, and ESG to ensure a fully joined‑up approach aligned with commercial priorities and national campaigns.
Act as a spokesperson for M&S, representing the business across Scotland and Wales; managing relationships with Scottish and Welsh Governments, local authorities, MPs/MSPs/AMs and wider business and community groups; delivering high‑impact media relations across print, broadcast and social; and representing the business at local events, meetings and speaker platforms.
Manage sensitive and reputation‑related issues, including owning and resolving correspondence from political and community partners, advising Customer Services on cases that may escalate publicly, supporting Store Managers on local reputation challenges, and driving proactive communications around store reshape activity, including closures, planning matters and major developments.
Deliver regional campaigns and support community engagement, promoting investment programmes and partnerships, ensuring effective local activation of our wider campaigns, building strong relationships with Store Managers and Regional Teams through regular store time, and equipping them with the tools, guidance and advocacy skills to represent M&S positively within their communities.

Extensive experience in a similar communications role, ideally within retail.
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.
Strong digital savvy and excellent news judgement with first‑rate media handling experience.
A proven track record delivering regional communications and advocacy programmes that build and protect reputation, including issues and crisis management.
Experience working with Scottish/Welsh Governments, local authorities, and political partners.

20% colleague discount on all M&S products and many third-party brands for you and someone in your household, available once you’ve completed your probation
Competitive holiday allowance with the option to buy more
Discretionary bonus schemes linked to your performance and ours
Strong pension and life assurance to help plan for the future
Tailored induction and training to support your development from day one
Exclusive perks and savings through our M&S Choices portal
Market-leading family policies, including parental, adoption and neonatal leave
24/7 wellbeing support, including virtual GP access and mental health services
One paid volunteer day a year to support a cause that matters to you

Local Communications Manager

Key skills