Associate Director, Paid Search

📌 Core Information

🔹 Job Title: Associate Director, Paid Search

🔹 Company: GroupM

🔹 Location: New York, New York, United States

🔹 Job Type: Full-time, Hybrid (4 days in-office)

🔹 Category: Advertising & Marketing

🔹 Date Posted: April 30, 2025

🔹 Experience Level: 5-10 years

🔹 Remote Status: On-site (Hybrid)

🚀 Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

• Leading day-to-day Paid Search operations and team management
• Strategic direction and client relationship management
• Training and developing team members
• Improving operational efficiencies and driving business growth

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a balance of strategic thinking, team leadership, and operational excellence. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in Paid Search and a proven track record in managing teams and driving results.

📋 Key Responsibilities

✅ Lead and own the day-to-day management of search team workflow, oversight of search recommendations, execution details, budgets/accounting, and performance.

✅ Develop positive relationships with the search community, vendors, and Directors for optimal service levels and results.

✅ Study and understand the client’s product, marketing objectives, and digital goals with an emphasis on paid search, ensuring your recommendations are insightful and consistent.

✅ Interface and present to senior clients on a regular basis.

✅ Train, motivate, and develop Search Managers, Senior Associates, and Associates, performing as a leader with minimal supervision. A key result will be developing talent.

✅ Develop and write up standard methodologies for improving operational efficiencies within the team and the group.

✅ Keep senior management apprised of key client opportunities, potential risks, and other key nuances which affect the health of the business.

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a high level of organization, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple projects and stakeholders simultaneously.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Analytics, Marketing, Communications, Advertising; OR equivalent professional work experience.

Experience: 5+ years in Analytical Tools (Google Analytics, Web trends, Omniture), Search Engine Desktop Tools (Google AdWords Editor, Bing Ads Editor).

Required Skills:

• Significant client-facing and relationship management experience
• Prior experience managing a team; demonstrating a proven track record in training and growing junior team members
• Excellent verbal and written skills; exceptional organizational skills, multi-tasking capabilities, and attention to detail

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with additional marketing channels (e.g., Social Media, Display, SEO)
• Fluency in additional languages

ASSUMPTION: Candidates with experience in additional marketing channels and/or multiple languages may have an advantage in this role.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $120,000 - $160,000 per year (Based on industry standards for similar roles and experience levels)

Benefits:

• Medical, Group Retirement Plans, Vision, Dental Insurance
• Paid Time Off, Preferential Partner Discounts, Employee Mental Health Awareness Days

Working Hours: Full-time (40 hours/week), with flexibility for hybrid work arrangement (4 days in-office)

ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for similar roles and experience levels. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as candidate's qualifications, skills, and negotiation.

📌 Applicant Insights

🔍 Company Context

Industry: Advertising Services. GroupM is a global media investment group with a mission to shape the next era of media where advertising works better for people.

Company Size: 10,001+ employees. As part of a large organization, applicants can expect structured career paths, extensive resources, and opportunities for growth.

Founded: GroupM was founded in 2003 as the media investment arm of WPP.

Company Description:

• GroupM is responsible for more than $60 billion in annual media investment, as measured by the independent research bureau COMvergence.
• The company offers a unique combination of global scale, expertise, and innovation to generate sustained value for clients.
• GroupM is committed to fostering a culture of respect and equal opportunity for all employees.

Company Specialties:

• Media Investment
• Media Planning & Buying
• Digital Marketing
• Data & Analytics

Company Website: www.groupm.com

ASSUMPTION: GroupM's size and global presence offer applicants the opportunity to work on diverse projects and gain exposure to various industries and markets.

📊 Role Analysis

Career Level: Mid-level to Senior. This role offers opportunities for career growth and leadership development.

Reporting Structure: The Associate Director, Paid Search will report directly to the Director of Paid Search and oversee Search Managers, Senior Associates, and Associates.

Work Arrangement: Hybrid (4 days in-office). This arrangement offers flexibility and a balance between in-office collaboration and remote work.

Growth Opportunities:

• Progression to Director or Senior Director level within the Paid Search team
• Expansion into other marketing channels or leadership roles within GroupM
• Cross-functional collaboration and project opportunities within the broader GroupM network

ASSUMPTION: Successful candidates in this role will have opportunities to grow within the Paid Search team and explore other leadership or cross-functional roles within GroupM.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: GroupM's New York office is a collaborative, modern workspace designed to facilitate teamwork and innovation.

Office Location(s): 1290 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10104, United States

Geographic Context:

• New York City offers a vibrant and diverse cultural scene, with numerous entertainment, dining, and recreational options.
• The office is conveniently located in Midtown Manhattan, with easy access to public transportation and nearby amenities.
• New York City has a humid subtropical climate, with warm summers and cold winters.

Work Schedule: Full-time (40 hours/week), with flexibility for hybrid work arrangement (4 days in-office).

ASSUMPTION: The hybrid work arrangement offers applicants the best of both worlds – in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility.

💼 Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

• Phone or video screen with the Talent Acquisition team
• In-depth interviews with the hiring manager and team members
• Case study or project presentation (if applicable)
• Final interview with senior leadership

Key Assessment Areas:

• Paid Search expertise and strategic thinking
• Team leadership and management skills
• Client relationship management and communication skills
• Problem-solving and analytical skills

Application Tips:

• Highlight relevant Paid Search experience and achievements in your resume
• Tailor your cover letter to demonstrate your understanding of the role and GroupM's mission
• Prepare for behavioral and situational interview questions focused on leadership, team management, and client relationship management

ATS Keywords: Paid Search, Team Management, Client Relationship Management, Analytical Tools, Google Analytics, Google AdWords, Bing Ads, Training, Leadership, Organizational Skills, Communication Skills, Multi-tasking, Attention to Detail, Strategic Thinking, Operational Efficiency

ASSUMPTION: GroupM's application process is designed to assess candidates' technical skills, leadership potential, and cultural fit within the organization.

🛠️ Tools & Technologies

• Google Analytics
• Google AdWords Editor
• Bing Ads Editor
• Additional marketing channels (e.g., Social Media, Display, SEO)

ASSUMPTION: Familiarity with additional marketing channels and tools may be beneficial but is not required for this role.

👔 Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

• Collaboration
• Creativity
• Integrity
• Excellence

Work Style:

• Fast-paced and dynamic environment
• Data-driven decision-making
• Cross-functional teamwork and collaboration
• Focus on continuous learning and improvement

Self-Assessment Questions:

• Do you thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment?
• Are you comfortable working with data and using it to inform decision-making?
• Do you enjoy collaborating with cross-functional teams and learning from others?
• Are you committed to continuous learning and improvement?

ASSUMPTION: GroupM values candidates who are passionate about their work, collaborative, and committed to continuous learning and improvement.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

• Managing multiple projects and stakeholders simultaneously
• Balancing strategic thinking with day-to-day operational tasks
• Adapting to a fast-paced, dynamic work environment
• Developing and retaining talent within the team

ASSUMPTION: Successful candidates will be able to manage multiple priorities, adapt to change, and develop strong leadership skills to overcome these challenges.

📈 Similar Roles Comparison

• This role is similar to other Paid Search management positions but offers a unique opportunity to work within a global media investment group.
• GroupM's size and global presence provide access to diverse projects and industries, as well as extensive resources and career growth opportunities.
• Career progression in this role may lead to leadership positions within the Paid Search team or other marketing channels within GroupM.

ASSUMPTION: Applicants should consider their long-term career goals and the unique opportunities offered by GroupM when evaluating this role.

📝 Sample Projects

• Developing and implementing a strategic Paid Search plan for a new client launch
• Optimizing Paid Search campaigns to improve ROI and drive business growth
• Training and mentoring team members on Paid Search best practices and industry trends

ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the strategic, operational, and leadership aspects of the Associate Director, Paid Search role.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

• How does this role fit into the broader Paid Search team and GroupM's global strategy?
• What are the key priorities for this role in the first 30, 60, and 90 days?
• How does GroupM support the professional development and growth of its employees?
• What are the most challenging aspects of this role, and how can I best prepare to succeed in them?
• How does GroupM foster a culture of collaboration and innovation within its teams?

ASSUMPTION: These interview questions demonstrate a candidate's interest in the role, the company, and their long-term career growth potential.

📌 Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

• Submit your application through this link
• Tailor your resume to highlight relevant Paid Search experience and achievements
• Write a cover letter demonstrating your understanding of the role and GroupM's mission
• Prepare for behavioral and situational interview questions focused on leadership, team management, and client relationship management
• Follow up with the hiring team one week after submitting your application, if you haven't heard back

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.