Associate Media Director - Paid Search

We Are Rosie•Palmetto, GA

1d•$60 - $72•Hybrid

About The Position

Our agency client is seeking an Associate Media Director, Paid Search to oversee self-service buying operations and yield optimization of client programs in an AI-evolving search landscape. In this critical role, you'll oversee a hands-on-keyboard team, managing a portfolio of campaigns across multiple client accounts. You'll work with leading clients, account teams, media and platform strategy teams, as well as with platform technology partners. The ideal candidate has a passion for media, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, is a self-directed, self-starter, and out-of-the-box thinker who can navigate the shift toward AI Overviews (AIO) and Answer Engine Optimization (AEO).

Requirements

6+ years of professional experience in search media buying
Advanced understanding of the search advertising ecosystem with expertise in Google and Bing platforms
Deep understanding of AI's impact on search including AI Overviews (AIO), Answer Engine Optimization (AEO), and Search Generative Experience (SGE)
Advanced understanding of the supply and data ecosystems and the appropriate application of each within campaigns
Search performance expertise required
Experience managing a hands-on-keyboard team responsible for search campaign execution, media and business performance results
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills in dealing with new challenges as they arise
Self-directed, self-starter with out-of-the-box thinking abilities
Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Advertising, Communications, or related field
Must be based in Boston or NYC

Nice To Haves

Experience developing strategies to maintain visibility in AI-generated search results and answer engines
Understanding of how conversational search and voice search impact paid search strategy
Google Ads certifications (Search, Shopping, Display, Measurement, AI-Powered Performance Ads) and Microsoft Advertising certification
Experience with automated bidding strategies (Target CPA, Target ROAS, Maximize Conversions) and Performance Max
Knowledge of SEO principles, Answer Engine Optimization (AEO), and how organic and paid search work together in an AI-driven search ecosystem
Experience with Google Analytics 4, Google Tag Manager, and conversion tracking in AI-assisted environments

Responsibilities

Lead search execution and performance across clients (Google Ads, Microsoft Advertising
Oversee operation of digital media buying technologies across search platforms while adapting to AI-driven search experiences
Guide advanced optimization strategy to push the boundaries for current campaigns and align with clients' business and KPI goals in context of AI Overviews and SGE
Drive yield optimization across search campaigns to maximize performance and efficiency
Provide direction on campaign design, including suggestions for new or different use of platforms to achieve optimal performance, leveraging AI-powered features (Performance Max, automated bidding)
Develop Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) strategies to maintain brand visibility in AI-generated search results
Achieve delivery and KPI goals, providing input and feedback to ensure campaign success across multiple client accounts
Manage a team of Search Buyers who execute hands-on-keyboard campaign operations
Provide leadership, mentorship, and professional development to build team capabilities, including education on AI's impact on search marketing
Establish team workflows, QA processes, and best practices for campaign excellence in automated and AI-assisted environments
Foster collaborative team environment aligned with Hill Holliday's integrated, no-ego culture
Partner with internal teams to ensure adherence to best practices, timelines, business objectives and media KPIs for successful campaigns in market
Provide valuable feedback and insight on performance to internal and client teams, with optimization rationale and recommendations to exceed performance goals, including implications of AI Overviews
Contribute to improvements in processes, both technical and business
Cultivate relationships with Google and Microsoft platform representatives and support team
Secure beta access to AI-powered features, training opportunities, and value-added support for clients
Stay current on algorithm updates, automation features, AI capabilities (Gemini, Performance Max enhancements, SGE developments), and emerging search capabilities including AIO impact on SERP positioning
Takes accountability and drives the team to do their best work
Provides leadership to the team and is a responsible steward of deliverables
Can flex between managing the team and being a collaborative member of the team
Experience developing and communicating ingenious strategies in how the team meets goals and delivers work
Ability to manage up, down and across
Ensures team members take accountability for on-time and on-budget quality execution