Paid Search Associate Account Director

Based on the provided raw job listing, here's the following the specified format: ## 📌 Core Information 🔹 Job Title: Paid Search Associate Account Director 🔹 Company: IPG Mediabrands 🔹 Location: London, England, United Kingdom 🔹 Job Type: Full-time 🔹 Category: Advertising & Marketing 🔹 Date Posted: July 3, 2025 🔹 Experience Level: 5-10 years 🔹 Remote Status: On-site/Hybrid ## 🚀 Job Overview Key aspects of this role include: - Strategic Search Engine Marketing: Establish understanding of Kinesso’s expertise and products/services to provide actionable growth for clients. - Client Relationship Management: Lead and manage agency resources to deliver high-quality service and digital solutions, ensuring all client needs are met on time, to budget, and to the highest standards of service. - Team Leadership: Lead, manage, and mentor Account Executives to ensure workloads are organized, quality of work is high, and training needs are met. - Performance Analysis: Analyze campaign performance, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions to optimize results. - Collaboration and Communication: Work closely with Account Executives, Group Account Directors, and other stakeholders to ensure client campaigns are delivered successfully. Assumption: This role requires a strategic mindset, strong analytical skills, and the ability to balance multiple priorities and projects simultaneously. ## 📋 Key Responsibilities 🔹 Strategic Search Engine Marketing - Develop and implement strategic search engine marketing plans to drive results for clients across multiple EMEA markets. - Collaborate with Kenvue and Mattel account teams to manage their accounts and ensure their campaigns run smoothly. - Stay up-to-date with industry trends, new features, and beta trials for Google Ads and SA360 to optimize client campaigns. 🔹 Client Relationship Management - Build and maintain strong, long-lasting client relationships through regular communication, understanding their needs, and exceeding expectations. - Manage client expectations and ensure accurate contact reports are issued within 24 hours of meetings. - Monitor client competitors and their activity to inform strategic decision-making. 🔹 Team Leadership - Mentor and supervise Account Executives, providing regular feedback on performance and helping them develop their skills. - Delegate tasks and workloads to ensure an acceptable balance between workload and team capacity. - Collaborate with Business Performance Director to keep them informed about team development and performance. 🔹 Performance Analysis - Analyze campaign performance data to identify trends, optimize results, and present insights to clients. - Lead meetings and discussions to ensure accurate contact reports are issued within 24 hours of meetings. - Develop regular results analysis, recommendations, and presentations to drive continuous improvement. 🔹 Collaboration and Communication - Work closely with Account Executives, Group Account Directors, and other stakeholders to ensure client campaigns are delivered successfully. - Monitor trade press and social media to identify opportunities and threats for clients. Assumption: Success in this role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders. ## 💡 Required Qualifications 🔹 Education: - Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business, or a related field (or equivalent experience) 🔹 Experience: - Proven experience in search marketing, with a focus on Google Search Ads and YouTube (buying via AdWords) - Experience managing large budgets and delivering strong results for large brands across multiple markets and product types - Experience managing PPC campaigns across multi-account MCCs 🔹 Required Skills: - Strong analytical skills and attention to detail - Ability to work in a high-pressure environment and resolve client issues - Strong commercial acumen and understanding of the 'big picture' - Ability to work with an attitude of 'it’s up to me to make it happen' - Strong communication skills, both up and down the organization 🔹 Preferred Skills: - Experience with SA360 and other Google Ads tools - Knowledge of other digital media channels (Display, eRetail, Social media) - Familiarity with automation and programmatic advertising Assumption: Candidates should have a proven track record in search marketing, with a strong focus on Google Search Ads and YouTube, and experience managing large budgets and delivering results for large brands. ## 💰 Compensation & Benefits 🔹 Salary Range: Competitive salary package based on experience and industry standards (exact details provided upon request) 🔹 Benefits: - Flexible leave policy, with 25 days annual leave to be taken as the minimum, plus office closure between Christmas and New Year - Free breakfast and lunch provided on-site - Early finish Fridays and core hours with flexible start/finish times - Retail discounts, electric vehicle salary sacrifice car scheme, well-being program, interest-free season ticket loan, paid time off for volunteering, group income protection, life assurance, private medical insurance or health cash plan, group personal pension plan with matched contributions from 3-6%, generous parental leave and pay, independent mortgage advice, financial education, employee assistance program, free eye tests, and flexible benefits including dental, travel insurance, cycle to work, gym discounts, and many more! Assumption: The salary range is competitive and commensurate with the experience and skills required for this role. The benefits package is designed to attract and retain top talent in the industry. ## 📌 Applicant Insights 🔹 Company Context: - Industry: Advertising & Marketing - Company Size: 10,001+ employees - Founded: 1930 (as IPG, with Mediabrands as a division since 2012) - Description: IPG Mediabrands is the media and marketing solutions division of Interpublic Group (NYSE: IPG). It manages over $47 billion in marketing investment globally on behalf of its clients across its full-service agency networks UM, Initiative, and Mediahub, and through its award-winning specialized business units Healix, KINESSO, MAGNA, Mediabrands Content Studio, Orion Holdings, Rapport, and the IPG Media Lab. IPG Mediabrands clients include many of the world’s most recognizable and iconic brands from a broad portfolio of industry sectors, employing more than 18,000 diverse marketing communication professionals in more than 130 countries. Learn more at [www.ipgmediabrands.com](http://www.ipgmediabrands.com). 🔹 Company Specialties: - Media Planning & Buying - Automation & Programmatic - Digital Media - Branded Content - Media Barter - Online & Mobile - Social Media Marketing - Sponsorship and Sports Marketing - ROI and Consumer Research - Hyper-Local and Multicultural Marketing - And Out-Of-Home Advertising 🔹 Company Website: [www.ipgmediabrands.com](http://www.ipgmediabrands.com) Assumption: IPG Mediabrands offers a dynamic and challenging work environment with a wide range of opportunities for professional growth and development. ## 📈 Role Analysis 🔹 Career Level: Senior-level role, ideal for experienced search marketing professionals looking to advance their careers in a global advertising and marketing agency. 🔹 Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Group Account Director, with matrix reporting to the Business Performance Director and other relevant stakeholders. 🔹 Work Arrangement: On-site/Hybrid, with a focus on working on-site to collaborate effectively with the team and clients. 🔹 Growth Opportunities: - Potential to work with a diverse portfolio of high-profile clients across multiple industries and markets. - Opportunities to develop skills in strategic planning, team leadership, and client relationship management. - Exposure to cutting-edge advertising technologies and industry trends. - Access to a global network of professionals and resources within IPG Mediabrands and the broader IPG group. Assumption: This role offers significant growth potential for the right candidate, with opportunities to work on high-profile campaigns, develop leadership skills, and gain exposure to a wide range of clients and industries. ## 🌍 Location & Work Environment 🔹 Office Type: On-site office with a collaborative and dynamic work environment. 🔹 Office Location: London, City of, United Kingdom 🔹 Geographic Context: - London, the capital of England and the United Kingdom, is a major global city with a diverse population and a thriving business ecosystem. - The city is known for its rich history, iconic landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene. - London is a major hub for the advertising, marketing, and media industries, with numerous agencies and industry events. 🔹 Work Schedule: Core hours with flexible start/finish times, allowing for a balance between work and personal life. Assumption: The location and work environment offer a dynamic and stimulating work environment, with easy access to cultural attractions, amenities, and networking opportunities. ## 💼 Interview & Application Insights 🔹 Typical Process: 1. Online application submission through the provided link. 2. Phone or video screening with the hiring manager, Jess. 3. On-site or virtual interview with the Group Account Director and other relevant stakeholders. 4. Final round interview with senior leadership, if applicable. 🔹 Key Assessment Areas: 1. Strategic Thinking: Assessing the candidate's ability to develop and implement strategic search engine marketing plans and drive results for clients. 2. Client Management: Evaluating the candidate's skills in building and maintaining strong client relationships, managing client expectations, and delivering high-quality service. 3. Leadership & Team Management: Assessing the candidate's ability to lead, mentor, and manage Account Executives, and collaborate effectively with stakeholders. 4. Performance Analysis: Measuring the candidate's analytical skills and their ability to analyze campaign performance data and make data-driven decisions. 5. Communication & Collaboration: Evaluating the candidate's communication skills, both written and verbal, and their ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders. 🔹 Application Tips: 1. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this role. 2. Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your problem-solving skills, leadership experience, and ability to work in a high-pressure environment. 3. Research the company, its clients, and the advertising industry to demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm for the role. 4. Practice common interview questions and your responses to ensure confidence and clarity in your delivery. Assumption: The interview process is designed to assess the candidate's strategic thinking, client management, leadership, performance analysis, communication, and cultural fit for the role and the company. ## 🛠 Cultural Fit Considerations 🔹 Company Values: - Innovation: Embracing change and driving progress through creativity and innovation. - Collaboration: Working together to achieve common goals and deliver exceptional results for clients. - Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all aspects of the business. - Diversity, Equity & Inclusion: Fostering a culture of belonging where everyone can bring their authentic selves to work. - Accountability: Taking ownership of our actions and their impact on clients, colleagues, and the broader community. 🔹 Work Style: - Collaborative: Working together to achieve common goals and deliver exceptional results for clients. - Agile: Adapting to change and embracing new opportunities as they arise. - Inclusive: Fostering a culture of belonging where everyone can bring their authentic selves to work. - Analytical: Making data-driven decisions and continuously improving performance based on insights and feedback. - Caring: Showing empathy and support for colleagues and clients, fostering a positive and inclusive work environment. 🔹 Self-Assessment Questions: 1. How do you align with the company's values, particularly in the context of this role? 2. Describe a situation where you had to manage a high-pressure client relationship, and how did you ensure their needs were met while delivering high-quality service? 3. How have you developed the skills of a junior team member to help them grow in their role and contribute effectively to the team's goals? 4. Describe a time when you had to analyze campaign performance data to identify trends and optimize results. What was the outcome, and what did you learn from the experience? 5. How do you approach working with diverse teams and stakeholders to ensure effective collaboration and communication? Assumption: Candidates should demonstrate a strong fit with the company's values and work style, with a focus on collaboration, innovation, integrity, diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as a strong commitment to delivering exceptional results for clients. ## ⚠️ Potential Challenges 🔹 Challenges Specific to This Role: 1. Managing Multiple Clients: Balancing the needs and expectations of multiple high-profile clients, each with their own unique requirements and priorities. 2. Working in a Matrix Organization: Collaborating effectively with multiple stakeholders, including Group Account Directors, Business Performance Directors, and other relevant teams. 3. Keeping Up with Industry Trends: Staying current with the latest developments in search marketing, advertising technologies, and client industries. 4. Managing Large Budgets: Ensuring the effective allocation and management of significant marketing budgets to maximize results and minimize waste. 🔹 Challenges Specific to the Industry: 1. Rapid Industry Evolution: Adapting to constant changes in advertising technologies, consumer behavior, and market trends. 2. Data Privacy and Regulation: Navigating evolving data privacy regulations and ensuring compliance with industry standards and best practices. 3. Client Expectations: Meeting and exceeding client expectations in an increasingly competitive and dynamic market. Assumption: Candidates should be prepared to face and overcome these challenges, demonstrating strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement. ## 📝 Similar Roles Comparison 🔹 Comparison Point 1 - Role Focus: - This role focuses on strategic search engine marketing, client relationship management, team leadership, and performance analysis, with a strong emphasis on driving results for clients. - Similar roles may focus more on specific aspects of the role, such as pure client management, team leadership, or performance analysis, with less emphasis on other areas. 🔹 Comparison Point 2 - Industry Context: - This role is within a global advertising and marketing agency, offering exposure to a wide range of clients, industries, and advertising channels. - Similar roles may be within specialized agencies, focusing on specific industries, advertising channels, or service offerings, with a more narrow scope of clients and projects. 🔹 Comparison Point 3 - Career Path: - This role offers significant growth potential, with opportunities to work with high-profile clients, develop leadership skills, and gain exposure to a wide range of clients and industries. - Similar roles may offer more linear career progression, with a focus on developing specific skills or specializing in a particular area of advertising or marketing. Assumption: Candidates should consider the focus, context, and growth potential of this role compared to similar roles in the industry, and assess their fit and aspirations accordingly. ## 📝 Sample Projects 🔹 Project Example 1 - Strategic Search Engine Marketing Plan: - Develop and implement a strategic search engine marketing plan for a major retail client, focusing on driving online sales and in-store footfall through targeted PPC and PLA campaigns. - Collaborate with the client's e-commerce and marketing teams to integrate online and offline marketing efforts and maximize overall campaign performance. 🔹 Project Example 2 - Client Relationship Management: - Manage the relationship with a high-profile FMC client, ensuring their marketing objectives are met while delivering exceptional service and results. - Develop and execute a comprehensive marketing strategy that aligns with the client's global brand guidelines and local market needs. 🔹 Project Example 3 - Team Leadership and Development: - Lead a team of Account Executives in managing a portfolio of client accounts, ensuring high-quality service, and driving results for each client. - Develop and implement a training and development plan for team members, focusing on building their skills and advancing their careers within the agency. Assumption: These sample projects illustrate the strategic, client-focused, and leadership aspects of the role, and provide insight into the types of initiatives candidates may be involved in as a Paid Search Associate Account Director. ## ❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview 🔹 Question 1 - Strategic Planning: - Can you describe your approach to developing and implementing a strategic search engine marketing plan for a major retail client, focusing on driving online sales and in-store footfall through targeted PPC and PLA campaigns? 🔹 Question 2 - Client Management: - How would you manage the relationship with a high-profile FMC client to ensure their marketing objectives are met while delivering exceptional service and results? What steps would you take to understand their global brand guidelines and local market needs? 🔹 Question 3 - Team Leadership: - Can you describe your approach to leading and developing a team of Account Executives, focusing on building their skills and advancing their careers within the agency? What strategies would you use to ensure high-quality service and drive results for each client in the team's portfolio? 🔹 Question 4 - Performance Analysis: - How would you analyze campaign performance data to identify trends and optimize results? Can you provide an example of a time when you identified a significant trend and implemented changes that improved campaign performance? 🔹 Question 5 - Cultural Fit: - How do you align with the company's values, particularly in the context of this role? Can you provide an example of a time when you demonstrated innovation, collaboration, integrity, diversity, equity, and inclusion in your work? Assumption: These questions are designed to assess the candidate's strategic thinking, client management, leadership, performance analysis, and cultural fit for the role and the company, providing insight into their approach to key aspects of the role and their alignment with the company's values and work style. ## 📌 Next Steps for Applicants 🔹 To apply for this position: 1. Submit your application through the provided link: [Apply Now](https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/mediabrands/jobs/4757063007) 2. Prepare for a phone or video screening with the hiring manager, Jess. 3. Prepare for on-site or virtual interviews with the Group Account Director and other relevant stakeholders. 4. Prepare for a final round interview with senior leadership, if applicable. 🔹 Concrete preparation steps related to resume customization: - Highlight your relevant experience in search marketing, with a focus on Google Search Ads and YouTube (buying via AdWords). - Emphasize your experience managing large budgets and delivering strong results for large brands across multiple markets and product types. - Showcase your leadership and team management skills, with examples of mentoring, training, and developing junior team members. - Demonstrate your analytical skills and experience in performance analysis, with examples of identifying trends and optimizing campaign performance. - Tailor your resume to emphasize your fit with the company's values and work style, particularly in the areas of innovation, collaboration, integrity, diversity, equity, and inclusion. 🔹 Follow-up recommendation with timeline: - After submitting your application, follow up with the hiring manager, Jess, within one week to confirm receipt and inquire about next steps in the process. - If you have not heard back after two weeks, reach out again to express your continued interest in the role and inquire about any updates or additional information required. Assumption: Following these next steps and preparation tips will help applicants effectively navigate the application process and demonstrate their qualifications and fit for the role.