Żabka Group is seeking an experienced and strategically minded leader to take overall responsibility for the External Communications function and lead a team of communications professionals. This role is suited to an accomplished people leader with a proven track record of building high-performing teams, partnering with executive leadership, and operating effectively in a dynamic and fast-paced business environment.

We are looking for an individual with extensive experience in managing communications within organizations exposed to significant media scrutiny and reputational risk, and who can successfully guide the business through complex and challenging situations. A key aspect of this role will be responsibility for crisis communications management, providing strategic counsel to the Executive Board and senior stakeholders, and making sound decisions in a high-pressure environment.

This position offers broad business and reputational impact, covering the development and execution of external communications and PR strategies, corporate communications, media relations, Public Affairs initiatives, and CSR activities.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, develop and inspire the External Communications team (7 FTEs), fostering a culture of high performance, engagement and collaboration.
• Act as a trusted strategic advisor to the Executive Board on communications, reputation management and stakeholder engagement.
• Lead the organisation’s crisis communications preparedness and response activities, ensuring effective management of high-profile and high-pressure situations.
• Identify and monitor reputational risks, develop response scenarios, and establish crisis management frameworks, processes and standards.
• Serve as the company spokesperson and represent Żabka Group in engagements with the media and key external stakeholders.
• Develop and implement Public Relations strategies that support the Group’s business objectives and strengthen its reputation.
• Shape and execute the external communications strategy, ensuring the continuous development of communication channels and tools.
• Oversee cooperation with PR agencies and external partners.
• Coordinate communication initiatives across business functions and support marketing activities where appropriate.
• Build and maintain relationships with public institutions, non-governmental organisations and other external stakeholders as part of Public Affairs activities.
• Oversee the planning and execution of events, ensuring effective budget management and delivery excellence.
• Monitor market trends and analyse competitors’ communication and reputation-building activities.
• Manage communication and PR budgets, ensuring effective allocation of resources and delivery against objectives.
• Develop and advance the Group’s CSR strategy in line with business priorities and monitor the impact of social responsibility initiatives.
• Ensure all communication materials are aligned with the Group’s Corporate Identity standards.

We are looking for someone who

• Has substantial leadership experience in Public Relations, Corporate Communications, Public Affairs or Strategic Communications.
• Has a proven track record of managing crisis communications within a large and complex organisation.
• Demonstrates resilience, sound judgement and the ability to make effective decisions under pressure.
• Has experience working closely with Executive Boards and acting as a trusted advisor to senior business leaders.
• Has successfully led and developed teams, supporting both managerial and professional growth.
• Can design and implement communication strategies that support business priorities and organisational objectives.
• Thrives in a dynamic environment characterised by continuous change.
• Possesses excellent interpersonal, negotiation and presentation skills.
• Has a strong ability to build and sustain long-term relationships with media representatives, external partners and key stakeholders.
• Is fluent in both Polish and English.
• Holds a valid Category B driving licence.

What we offer

• A unique opportunity to shape the communications strategy and reputation of one of the largest retail and convenience ecosystems in Poland.
• Close collaboration with the Executive Board and senior business leaders.
• A highly visible and strategic role with significant influence across the organisation.
• A dynamic and growth-oriented environment focused on innovation and continuous improvement.
• A competitive compensation and benefits package, including a company car.
• A hybrid working model, with 2–3 days per week based in our Poznań office.