SEO MANAGER

📌 Core Information 🔹 Job Title: SEO Manager 🔹 Company: Marcel Digital 🔹 Location: Chicago, Illinois, United States 🔹 Job Type: Full-Time 🔹 Category: Advertising Services 🔹 Date Posted: April 9, 2025 🚀 Job Overview Key aspects of this role include: - Generating qualified leads and driving revenue through organic search strategies - Analyzing complex organic search environments and implementing tailored SEO strategies - Collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver unified, revenue-driving solutions - Staying ahead of industry trends and pushing SEO and AEO forward ASSUMPTION: This role requires a blend of technical SEO expertise, strategic acumen, and content savvy. The ideal candidate will have experience working with B2B clients and a proven track record of driving business outcomes through SEO. 📋 Key Responsibilities ✅ Own organic performance with a revenue mindset, driving SEO and AEO strategies that improve visibility, capture demand, and convert high-intent traffic into leads ✅ Serve as a strategic thought partner to clients, uncovering the 'why' behind the 'what', aligning search strategies with business objectives, and evolving tactics based on performance and changing market dynamics ✅ Deliver full-spectrum SEO solutions, from deep technical audits to content gap analyses and on-page optimization, blending modern tools, AI enhancements, and manual expertise to create smart, scalable outcomes ✅ Compile insights and reports that inform and inspire action, connecting SEO performance directly to pipeline growth, sales conversations, and strategic goals ✅ Lead with curiosity and courage, experimenting with AI and staying ahead of SERP shifts to keep strategies evolving ahead of the curve ASSUMPTION: The responsibilities listed above are not exhaustive and may evolve based on the needs of the role and the organization. 🎯 Required Qualifications Education: - Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business, or a related field (or equivalent experience) Experience: - 3+ years of experience in SEO, ideally within a B2B agency or demand-gen environment Required Skills: - Proven ability to connect SEO performance with lead gen and revenue outcomes - Deep knowledge of technical SEO, on/off-page factors, and modern search ecosystems - Proficiency in tools such as Google Search Console, GA4, Looker Studio, SEMrush, Ahrefs, Screaming Frog, etc. - Comfort navigating CRMs like HubSpot or Salesforce (a plus) - Experience using AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Gemini) to support content creation and workflow acceleration - Strong strategic thinking and storytelling ability Preferred Skills: - Experience with AI tools for SEO and content creation - Familiarity with CRMs and sales enablement tools ASSUMPTION: The required and preferred skills listed above are essential for success in this role. However, the ideal candidate will also possess a strong work ethic, excellent communication skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. 💰 Compensation & Benefits Salary Range: $80,000 - $120,000 per year (based on experience and industry standards for SEO Managers in Chicago) Benefits: - Competitive salary and great benefits package - Casual, laid-back, and fun work environment - Autonomy to work independently and solve problems that get in the way - Voice in the development process and an environment that encourages mastering the latest trends Working Hours: Full-time, with flexibility for hybrid or remote work arrangements (as noted in the job description) ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for SEO Managers in Chicago. The actual salary may vary based on the candidate's experience and qualifications. 📌 Applicant Insights 🔍 Company Context Industry: Advertising Services Company Size: 11-50 employees Founded: 2003 Company Description: Marcel Digital is an award-winning digital marketing and web development agency based in Chicago. Since 2003, they have been helping brands attract, inform, and engage their target audiences to drive more leads and sales. Their team consists of industry-recognized, cross-trained experts in various digital marketing disciplines. Company Specialties: Search Engine Marketing, Facebook Applications, Conversion Optimization, Website Development, Search Engine Optimization, Paid Search, Display Advertising, Mobile Advertising, Analytics, Social Media Marketing, SEO, CRO, Umbraco Website Development, and Google Analytics. Company Website: https://www.marceldigital.com ASSUMPTION: Marcel Digital's industry expertise, size, and focus on digital marketing make it an attractive employer for professionals looking to grow their careers in the advertising services sector. 📊 Role Analysis Career Level: Mid-level (2-5 years of experience) Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Director of SEO Work Arrangement: Hybrid (with remote and on-site options available) Growth Opportunities: Potential career growth paths include Senior SEO Manager, SEO Director, or moving into a more specialized role within the agency. ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique opportunity to work with a diverse range of B2B clients, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and drive meaningful business outcomes through SEO strategies. 🌍 Location & Work Environment Office Type: Hybrid (with remote and on-site options available) Office Location(s): 445 W Erie Street, Suite 200, Chicago, IL 60654, US Geographic Context: Chicago, Illinois, United States - Diverse and vibrant city with a strong job market and numerous cultural attractions - Central time zone, with a four-season climate Work Schedule: Full-time, with flexibility for hybrid or remote work arrangements (as noted in the job description) ASSUMPTION: The hybrid work arrangement offers candidates the best of both worlds, allowing for flexibility while still providing opportunities for in-person collaboration and learning. 💼 Interview & Application Insights Typical Process: 1. Phone or video screening with the HR team 2. In-depth phone or video interview with the SEO team lead 3. Final on-site interview with the SEO team and other stakeholders Key Assessment Areas: - Technical SEO knowledge and skills - Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities - Communication and presentation skills - Cultural fit and alignment with Marcel Digital's values Application Tips: - Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant SEO experience and skills - Showcase your understanding of Marcel Digital's unique value proposition and how your skills align with their needs - Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your problem-solving skills, strategic thinking, and ability to work collaboratively ATS Keywords: SEO, Technical SEO, Organic Search, Lead Generation, Revenue Growth, Strategic Thinking, Client Engagement, Data Analysis, AI Tools, On-page Optimization, Reporting, Storytelling, CRM Navigation ASSUMPTION: The interview process at Marcel Digital is designed to assess both technical skills and cultural fit, with a strong emphasis on problem-solving and strategic thinking. 🛠️ Tools & Technologies - Google Search Console - GA4 - Looker Studio - SEMrush - Ahrefs - Screaming Frog - HubSpot or Salesforce (CRM) - AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Gemini) ASSUMPTION: The tools and technologies listed above are essential for success in this role. However, the ideal candidate will also be open to learning and adopting new tools as needed. 👔 Cultural Fit Considerations Company Values: - Authenticity - Integrity - Accountability - Insight Work Style: - Collaborative - Curious - Results-driven - Kind Self-Assessment Questions: 1. Can you provide an example of a time when you identified a complex SEO opportunity and executed a tailored strategy to drive business outcomes? 2. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and algorithm changes in the SEO industry? 3. Can you describe a situation where you had to adapt your SEO strategy due to changing market dynamics or client needs? ASSUMPTION: Marcel Digital values candidates who are authentic, accountable, and committed to driving meaningful results. They also prioritize a positive, collaborative work environment where employees can grow both personally and professionally. ⚠️ Potential Challenges 1. Managing multiple client projects with varying priorities and deadlines 2. Keeping up with the fast-paced nature of the digital marketing industry 3. Balancing technical SEO expertise with strategic thinking and client engagement 4. Collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams in a hybrid work environment ASSUMPTION: The potential challenges listed above require strong organizational skills, adaptability, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. 📈 Similar Roles Comparison 1. SEO Manager vs. SEO Specialist: As an SEO Manager, you will be responsible for driving SEO strategies and managing a team, whereas an SEO Specialist focuses primarily on tactical SEO execution. 2. SEO Manager vs. PPC/SEM Manager: While both roles focus on driving revenue through digital marketing channels, SEO Managers focus on organic search, while PPC/SEM Managers focus on paid search advertising. 3. SEO Manager vs. Content Strategist: SEO Managers and Content Strategists both play crucial roles in driving organic traffic and engagement. However, SEO Managers focus on optimizing content for search engines, while Content Strategists focus on creating high-quality, engaging content that resonates with target audiences. ASSUMPTION: The role of SEO Manager requires a unique blend of technical SEO expertise, strategic thinking, and client engagement skills, making it distinct from similar roles in the digital marketing industry. 📝 Sample Projects 1. Conducting a comprehensive SEO audit for a B2B client's website, identifying technical and on-page optimization opportunities, and implementing a tailored strategy to improve organic visibility and drive leads 2. Developing and executing a content gap analysis to inform a strategic content marketing plan, resulting in increased organic traffic and improved conversion rates 3. Collaborating with the development team to optimize a newly launched website's structure, content, and meta tags for search engines, leading to improved organic rankings and increased traffic ASSUMPTION: The sample projects listed above provide a glimpse into the diverse range of responsibilities and initiatives an SEO Manager at Marcel Digital might undertake. ❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview 1. What are the most significant SEO challenges facing our industry today, and how is Marcel Digital addressing them? 2. Can you describe the team structure and dynamics within the SEO department? 3. How does Marcel Digital support the professional development and growth of its SEO team members? 4. What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) used to measure the success of SEO campaigns, and how are they tracked and reported? 5. How does Marcel Digital approach A/B testing and optimization for SEO strategies? ASSUMPTION: The interview questions listed above are designed to provide insight into Marcel Digital's SEO strategies, team dynamics, and commitment to employee growth and development. 📌 Next Steps for Applicants To apply for this position: 1. Submit your application through this link: https://marcel.applytojob.com/apply/U11a47V9c8/SEO-MANAGER 2. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant SEO experience and skills, emphasizing your ability to drive business outcomes through organic search strategies 3. Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your problem-solving skills, strategic thinking, and ability to work collaboratively 4. Follow up with the hiring manager one week after submitting your application to express your continued interest in the role 5. If invited for an interview, arrive prepared with specific examples of your SEO achievements, challenges overcome, and lessons learned from previous roles ⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.