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Associate Director, Paid Search

Direct Agents
Full-time
On-site
New York, New York, United States
$105,000 - $114,999 USD yearly

 Direct Agents is looking for an experienced Associate Director, Paid Search to lead client accounts, deliver standout campaigns, and build impactful relationships. The ideal candidate is a results-oriented problem solver with a passion for data-driven performance marketing and a desire to achieve and exceed client goals. 

This NYC based role has a competitive salary range of $105,000 - $115,000, depending on experience, with annual compensation reviews based on performance. Potential bi-annual bonus pay is based on company and individual performance.

The Role

We’re looking for an Associate Director, Paid Search to lead the strategy, execution, and growth of high-impact paid search programs across a portfolio of performance-driven clients. This role requires deep hands-on experience in Google Ads, including Performance Max, and the ability to lead both day-to-day execution and long-term strategy. You’ll manage a team of search specialists, act as the senior point of contact for clients, and help evolve our SEM capabilities to stay ahead of platform and industry changes.

Key Responsibilities

  • Own strategy and execution of paid search campaigns across Google and Microsoft Ads, with a strong command of Performance Max, Shopping, Search, and YouTube for Action.

  • Client leadership: Serve as the primary strategic lead for multiple clients, translating business goals into performance marketing solutions and owning all communications and presentations.

  • Platform expertise: Build, optimize, and analyze campaigns hands-on, ensuring performance goals are met while mentoring others on best practices and emerging trends.

  • Team management: Lead and grow a team of paid search managers and analysts, fostering collaboration, ownership, and growth.

  • Innovation & testing: Design and manage testing roadmaps, bidding strategy evolution (e.g., broad match, value-based bidding), creative performance, and cross-channel integration.

  • Performance analysis: Develop actionable insights from data to drive account growth and improve ROI. Deliver clear, strategic reporting and recommendations.

  • Collaboration: Partner with cross-channel media leads, creative, CRO, and analytics teams to support full-funnel performance and unified marketing strategies.

What We’re Looking For

  • 5–7+ years of hands-on Paid Search experience, including direct experience managing Performance Max and Smart Bidding strategies.

  • Proven success leading multiple search accounts simultaneously in an agency or fast-paced environment.

  • Experience with eCommerce, lead generation, or B2B marketing in direct-response models.

  • Strong team leadership and people development experience.

  • Excellent communication and client-facing presentation skills.

  • Proficiency with tools including Google Ads, SA360, Google Analytics (GA4), and Looker Studio. Experience with feed management tools (e.g., Feedonomics or GMC) is a plus.

  • Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. SQL and scripting knowledge a plus but not required.


WHY DIRECT AGENTS

Work-Life Balance

  • 4-Day Work Week: Join our innovative pilot program designed for sustained productivity and well-being
  • Flexible PTO: Up to 24 days annually based on seniority, plus paid birthdays and volunteer days
  • Family Support: Comprehensive paid parental leave and family-friendly policies

Comprehensive Benefits

  • Premium Healthcare: Full coverage options including One Medical, KindBody, and mental health support
  • Wellness Perks: Citibike membership, fitness reimbursement, and wellness programs
  • Community: Dog-friendly office, team events, and an inclusive culture that celebrates diversity
  • Modern Tech Setup: MacBook Pro and premium software tools

Innovation & Growth

  • AI-Driven Innovation: Harness AI-powered workflows to optimize strategies and drive impactful results
  • Future-Forward Tech: Access proprietary tools like Kanopy AI and custom GPTs for advanced marketing solutions
  • Career Development: Shape your path through mentorship, training programs, and direct access to leadership
  • Industry Impact: Contribute to thought leadership and strategic initiatives that drive agency innovation

Outstanding Environment

  • Work with premier brands like Marvel, NBA, and NYSE while maintaining boutique agency creativity
  • Direct Agents is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Join us in shaping the future of digital marketing!