InVue SEM Strategist

📌 Core Information

🔹 Job Title: InVue SEM Strategist

🔹 Company: Hearst Newspapers

🔹 Location: Buffalo, New York, United States

🔹 Job Type: Full time

🔹 Category: Marketing

🔹 Date Posted: June 30, 2025

🔹 Experience Level: 2-5 years

🔹 Remote Status: Remote (Solely)

🚀 Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

• Overseeing multiple agency search and display marketing campaigns
• Managing PPC campaigns in Google Ads and Microsoft Ads
• Collaborating with colleagues to implement new strategies
• Acting as a go-to SEM resource for agency sales, staff, and clients
• Achieving campaign goals through appropriate budget allocation and optimization

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong understanding of PPC, Google Ads, and Microsoft Ads, as well as excellent communication and organizational skills. The ideal candidate is self-motivated, able to multitask, and has a passion for digital marketing.

📋 Key Responsibilities

✅ Overseeing the strategy and performance of multiple agency search and display marketing campaigns

✅ Day-to-day management of PPC campaigns, including performance optimization, budget management, and campaign development in Google Ads and Microsoft Ads platforms

✅ Working with colleagues to implement new strategies and improve current processes

✅ Acting as a go-to SEM resource for agency sales, staff, and clients

✅ Performing quality assurance prior to launching campaigns

✅ Presenting weekly and/or monthly updates to agency clients and partners regarding performance, metrics, and trends

✅ Appropriately managing client budgets to ensure appropriate pacing in order to meet campaign goals

✅ Achieving stated campaign goals through appropriate budget allocation and optimization of campaigns in order to consistently deliver a strong return on investment for our clients

✅ Performing in-depth keyword research, strategic analysis, competitive assessment, ad production, and campaign development

✅ Recommending content and layout suggestions for websites to improve user experience and lead conversion

✅ Implementing and refining Google Ads and Google Analytics tracking using Google Tag Manager, including troubleshooting errors and setting up goal or eCommerce tracking

✅ Monitoring and implementing new and emerging trends in SEM, and helping to educate team members and clients on these trends

✅ Utilizing AI tools to assist with campaign management and daily optimizations

✅ Performing other related duties as assigned

ASSUMPTION: The responsibilities listed above are subject to change based on business needs and may evolve over time. The ideal candidate is adaptable and eager to take on new challenges as they arise.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business, or a related field

Experience: 2-5 years of experience in paid search engine marketing, PPC, or a related field

Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in Google Ads and Microsoft Ads
• Strong understanding of PPC and digital marketing metrics
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks
• Proven ability to manage client budgets and achieve campaign goals
• Familiarity with Google Analytics and Google Tag Manager
• Ability to work remotely and collaborate with distributed teammates

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with AI tools for campaign management
• Familiarity with the luxury, high fashion, or energy supply industries
• Bilingual or multilingual skills

ASSUMPTION: While not explicitly stated, a strong understanding of digital marketing performance metrics and a proven track record of driving results for clients are highly desirable for this role.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $65,000 - $85,000 per year (Based on industry standards for a SEM Strategist role with 2-5 years of experience in the Buffalo, NY area)

Benefits:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Paid time off (vacation, sick, and holidays)
• Employee assistance program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Employee discounts on Hearst products and services

Working Hours: Full-time, remote work with flexible hours. Core hours are 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM EST, with the expectation to be available during these hours for team meetings and collaboration.

ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for the role, experience level, and location. The actual salary may vary based on factors such as skills, experience, and performance.

📌 Applicant Insights

🔍 Company Context

Industry: Hearst Newspapers is a division of Hearst Communications, focusing on newspaper publishing and digital media. They operate over 75 brands across a national network, serving local communities and informing national conversations.

Company Size: With over 3,600 employees, Hearst Newspapers is a mid-sized company, offering a mix of large-company resources and small-company agility.

Founded: Hearst Newspapers was founded in 1887, with a rich history in journalism and a commitment to informing and engaging communities.

Company Description:

• Hearst Newspapers is committed to being the most trusted, most respected, and most accurate source of news and information in the communities they serve.
• The company places readers' interests above all others and dedicates itself to the principles of truthfulness, fairness, and independence.
• Hearst Newspapers partners with thousands of local, regional, and national businesses, providing best-in-class advertising and marketing services each year.

Company Specialties:

• Newspaper Publishing
• Digital Media
• News
• Marketing
• Publishing
• Commerce
• Advertising
• Journalism
• Content Marketing
• Entertainment
• Comics
• Photography
• Product Design
• Social Media
• Branding
• Analytics
• SEO
• Company Culture
• Web Development
• Consumer Marketing
• and Audience

Company Website: JoinHNP.com

ASSUMPTION: Hearst Newspapers is a well-established company with a strong commitment to journalism and community engagement. They offer a comprehensive benefits package and opportunities for career growth and development.

📊 Role Analysis

Career Level: This role is at the mid-level career stage, requiring a balance of strategic thinking and tactical execution.

Reporting Structure: The SEM Strategist reports directly to the InVue Digital team and collaborates with agency sales, staff, and clients.

Work Arrangement: This role is remote solely, offering flexibility and the ability to work from anywhere in the United States.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to a Senior SEM Strategist or SEM Manager role
• Expansion into other areas of digital marketing, such as SEO or social media
• Opportunities to work on high-profile client accounts and gain exposure to diverse industries

ASSUMPTION: The SEM Strategist role offers ample opportunities for career growth and development within Hearst Newspapers and the broader digital marketing industry.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: While the InVue Digital team is headquartered in Buffalo, NY, they currently operate remotely, offering team members the benefit of working from wherever they please.

Office Location(s): 300 W 57th St, New York, NY 10019, US; 901 Mission St, San Francisco, California 94103, US; 4747 Southwest Fwy, Houston, Texas 77027, US; Avenue E & Third Street, San Antonio, TX 78205, US; P.O. Box 15000, News Plaza, Albany, NY 12212, US; 301 Merritt 7, Norwalk, Connecticut 06851, US

Geographic Context:

• The Buffalo, NY area offers a mix of urban and suburban living, with a cost of living that is lower than the national average.
• The region is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
• Buffalo is home to a diverse and growing tech industry, with a strong focus on digital marketing and advertising.

Work Schedule: Full-time, with flexible hours and the expectation to be available during core hours of 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM EST for team meetings and collaboration.

ASSUMPTION: The remote work arrangement offers flexibility and the ability to balance work and personal responsibilities. However, effective communication and time management skills are essential for success in this work environment.

💼 Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

• Phone or video screen with the InVue Digital team
• In-depth interview with the SEM Manager and/or other team members
• Final interview with the Director of InVue Digital or another senior leader
• Background check and offer

Key Assessment Areas:

• Technical expertise in Google Ads and Microsoft Ads
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills
• Communication and presentation skills
• Budget management and campaign optimization skills
• Adaptability and ability to work remotely

Application Tips:

• Highlight your experience with Google Ads and Microsoft Ads, and provide specific examples of successful campaigns you've managed.
• Tailor your resume and cover letter to emphasize your relevant skills and experiences for this role.
• Prepare for behavioral interview questions that assess your problem-solving skills, communication abilities, and adaptability.
• Research Hearst Newspapers and InVue Digital to demonstrate your understanding of the company and its mission.

ATS Keywords: Google Ads, Microsoft Ads, PPC, SEM, campaign management, budget management, digital marketing, keyword research, campaign development, ad production, Google Analytics, Google Tag Manager, AI tools

ASSUMPTION: The application process for this role is subject to change, and the specific assessment areas and interview structure may vary based on business needs.

🛠️ Tools & Technologies

• Google Ads
• Microsoft Ads
• Google Analytics
• Google Tag Manager
• AI tools for campaign management and optimization
• Project management and collaboration tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, or Jira)

ASSUMPTION: The tools and technologies listed above are subject to change based on business needs and may evolve over time. The ideal candidate is adaptable and eager to learn new tools and platforms as they arise.

👔 Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

• Integrity
• Quality
• Independence
• Innovation
• Community
• Excellence

Work Style:

• Collaborative and team-oriented
• Adaptable and flexible
• Results-driven and accountable
• Proactive and solutions-oriented
• Committed to continuous learning and improvement

Self-Assessment Questions:

• Do you share Hearst Newspapers' commitment to integrity, quality, and excellence in your work?
• Are you comfortable working remotely and collaborating with distributed teammates?
• Do you have a proven track record of driving results for clients and achieving campaign goals?
• Are you able to manage multiple tasks and prioritize your workload effectively?
• Do you have strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain complex situations in an easy-to-understand manner?

ASSUMPTION: Hearst Newspapers values a diverse and inclusive work environment, where employees are encouraged to bring their unique perspectives and experiences to the table.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

• Managing multiple campaigns simultaneously, requiring strong organizational skills and time management
• Working remotely, which may present unique challenges in terms of communication and collaboration
• Keeping up with the latest trends and best practices in SEM, requiring continuous learning and adaptation
• Managing client budgets effectively, requiring a strong understanding of financial management and budget pacing

ASSUMPTION: The potential challenges listed above are not exhaustive, and the ideal candidate is adaptable and eager to take on new challenges as they arise.

📈 Similar Roles Comparison

• Compared to other SEM Strategist roles, this position offers a unique opportunity to work with a diverse range of clients across various industries, including luxury, high fashion, and energy supply.
• Hearst Newspapers' commitment to journalism and community engagement sets it apart from other digital marketing agencies, offering a strong brand and reputation to work with.
• This role offers ample opportunities for career growth and development within Hearst Newspapers and the broader digital marketing industry.

ASSUMPTION: The comparison points listed above are not exhaustive, and the ideal candidate is able to research and compare this role to other similar positions in the industry.

📝 Sample Projects

• Developing and executing a comprehensive SEM strategy for a luxury fashion retailer, including keyword research, ad production, and campaign optimization
• Managing a PPC campaign for an energy supply manufacturer, with a focus on driving leads and conversions through targeted ad placement and budget optimization
• Collaborating with the SEO team to improve website user experience and lead conversion for a high-fashion e-commerce platform

ASSUMPTION: The sample projects listed above are not exhaustive, and the ideal candidate is able to research and develop their own project ideas based on their unique skills and experiences.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

• Can you describe the team structure and dynamics of the InVue Digital team?
• How does Hearst Newspapers support the professional development and growth of its employees?
• What are the key priorities for this role in the first 30, 60, and 90 days?
• How does the InVue Digital team collaborate with other departments and teams within Hearst Newspapers?
• What are the biggest challenges facing the SEM team currently, and how can this role help address them?

ASSUMPTION: The key questions listed above are not exhaustive, and the ideal candidate is able to research and develop their own interview questions based on their unique skills and experiences.

📌 Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

• Submit your application through this link
• Tailor your resume and cover letter to emphasize your relevant skills and experiences for this role
• Prepare for behavioral interview questions that assess your problem-solving skills, communication abilities, and adaptability
• Research Hearst Newspapers and InVue Digital to demonstrate your understanding of the company and its mission
• Follow up with the InVue Digital team one week after submitting your application to inquire about the status of your application

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