Contract Director, Paid Search

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage end-to-end paid search strategy across multiple clients and verticals (Google Ads, Bing, Performance Max, You Tube, etc.)
• Serve as the senior strategic advisor for all things SEM—owning client relationships, results, and recommendations
• Manage and mentor a team of SEM managers and specialists, ensuring continual growth, learning, and performance
• Oversee campaign planning, execution, testing, and optimization to meet performance goals (ROAS, CPL, CPA, etc.)
• Oversee audience segmentation, keyword strategies, bid strategies, ad extensions, and ad copy testing
• Analyze performance metrics and partner with Analytics team to deliver monthly reporting with actionable insights tied to appointment bookings or lead generation
• Partner with cross-functional teams (Media, Analytics, Creative, Data Science) to deliver holistic media plans
• Stay ahead of trends in AI, automation, privacy changes, and Google/Bing ad platform innovations
• Lead quarterly business reviews and reporting presentations for key clients
• Partner with ad ops, analytics and client teams to implement and maintain offline conversion tracking from CRM systems and call tracking integrations
• Ensure SEM work integrates seamlessly into omnichannel strategies (including paid social, programmatic OLV/Display)
• Develop processes, playbooks, and best practices to scale SEM efforts efficiently and effectively
• Mentor a team of paid search managers and associates, ensuring strategy execution aligns with client goals and industry best practices

• 7+ years of hands‑on experience in Paid Search
• 3+ years in a client‑facing/leadership role
• Proven success managing SEM budgets of $1M+ monthly across multiple accounts
• Deep understanding of campaign structures, keyword strategies, bidding models, ad copywriting, and platform tools
• Proficient in Google Ads, Microsoft Ads, Search Ads 360, and analytics platforms (e.g. GA4)
• Hands‑on experience with offline conversion tracking, including Google Ads Enhanced Conversions for Leads and CRM integrations
• Proven success optimizing CPL, CPA, and ROAS across multi‑location or regulated service areas
• Strong communication and client presentation skills
• Ability to lead strategic conversations and influence stakeholders at all levels
• Agency experience strongly preferred; B2B and/or DTC exposure a plus
• Google Ads certification(s) preferred