Jessica Makin exits as Amazon Australia's communications lead

Jessica Makin is leaving Amazon as the technology giant's Communications Lead for Australia, after almost seven years with the company.

Makin announced the move in a LinkedIn post, saying she had left the role after what she described as 6.5 years. 

She did not disclose her next position, writing: "And now, on to the next chapter - more on that shortly."

Makin joined Amazon in December 2019 from Scentre Group, the owner of Westfield shopping centres, where she was public relations manager for the company's Australian operations. 

She subsequently led communications for Amazon's Australian business.

During her tenure, Makin's team worked on the Australian launch of Amazon Flex, the company's delivery-partner program; warehouse openings attended by state premiers and the prime minister; and the announcement of a program to protect 10 native Australian species, including bandicoots and black cockatoos. 

She also cited the Australian launches of Harris Farm Markets and Amazon Business among the highlights of her time at the company.

Behind-the-scenes drama

Makin's departure comes as Amazon faces regulatory action in Australia. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission took Amazon to the Federal Court in June 2026, alleging Amazon AU locked more than one million annual Prime subscribers into contracts containing unfair terms, then used those terms to introduce advertising to Prime Video without offering refunds.

 Amazon has said it is reviewing the case and cooperated with the ACCC's investigation.

Mediaweek has reached out to Amazon Australia for comment on Mankin's departure.