SEM Manager

Description

The company is a global independent platform that combines business strategy, media, creative and data in one operating model, run on its proprietary system Alli.

It has more than 1,000 employees and works with brands such as Apple, Nike, Dropbox, Experian, Sephora and Whole Foods.

The paid search (SEM) team builds full-funnel marketing strategies through search campaigns, working alongside media, creative and analytics teams to deliver measurable results.

The team values collaboration, curiosity and creativity, and supports each person's professional and personal growth.

As SEM Manager, you will guide the team, shape strategy, build client relationships and drive results for well-known brands.

Responsibilities

• Monitor search performance, evaluate results and find areas to optimize, then put changes in place.
• Lead paid search strategies and campaigns so they match client goals and have the most impact.
• Build detailed reports on performance metrics, revenue and other paid search work, with insights and recommendations.
• Analyze campaign data and turn it into business impact and new opportunities for clients.
• Act as a trusted advisor to clients and make sure paid search plans support their wider business goals.
• Plan and divide budgets, oversee monthly spend and use resources efficiently to hit campaign goals.
• Connect paid search with PR, social and programmatic work so the overall marketing plan holds together.
• Drive use of the company's proprietary platform, Alli, using its features to improve campaigns and working across teams to make it more effective.
• Keep up with SEM industry trends, share them with the team and bring new practices into the work.
• Run a test-and-learn process, trying new ideas and refining paid search strategies to improve results.
• Manage and mentor a team, training them on best practices, coaching technical and soft skills, and building a culture of growth and collaboration.

Requirements

• 5+ years of paid search experience and a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
• 2+ years of people management experience, including mentoring, training and helping team members reach their potential.
• Advanced skill running paid search platforms such as Google Ads and Microsoft Ads, with clear results for clients.
• Hands-on campaign management: keyword research, ad copy optimization and bidding strategies fitted to client goals.
• Strong skill analyzing performance data and turning it into insights and recommendations that improve campaigns.
• Expertise in budget planning, optimization and performance analysis, using resources well and maximizing ROI.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Google Analytics and SQL to manage data, find insights and build clear performance reports.
• Strong problem-solving skills to spot improvements and carry out solutions with real impact.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills to keep internal teams and clients aligned on campaign goals.
• A proactive approach to combining paid search with wider marketing, including PR, social and programmatic.
• Curiosity and adaptability as a continual learner, keeping up with media innovation and focusing on client success with a customer-first mindset.
• People-focused leadership: you lead by example, build strong relationships and help others grow, collaborate and innovate.

Conditions

Benefits and compensation may vary by location and eligibility, subject to applicable plan terms, with full details shared during hiring.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age or veteran status.

Benefits

• Eligible for the company's annual bonus program, with awards based on individual, team and company results, subject to program terms.
• Learning and development programs, mentorship and support for career advancement.
• Generous time off to recharge and spend time outside work.
• Paid parental leave.
• Retirement benefits, including employer contributions or matching where applicable.
• Fertility and family-building benefits for eligible employees and their spouses or partners.
• Medical, dental and vision coverage for you and your family.
• Optional pet insurance.
• Company-funded support for eligible health and well-being expenses through a lifestyle spending account.
• Commuter support where available.
• Eight paid volunteering hours each year.
• Enterprise AI tools and ongoing training on using AI effectively, creatively and responsibly.