Freelance Associate Director, Programmatic
About The Position
The Freelance Associate Director, Programmatic is a strategic leadership role focused on account health and craft innovation. This role steers the programmatic direction for a portfolio of accounts, moving beyond the tactical to act as a senior consultant on automated buying. The individual is responsible for identifying how programmatic can bridge the gap between brand awareness and performance, while navigating the complexities of an evolving, privacy-first digital landscape. As a leader within the craft, this role ensures strategies are not only meeting KPIs but pushing the boundaries of what automated media can achieve. DEPT® is a Growth Invention company built to help the world’s most ambitious brands grow faster. Operating at the intersection of technology and marketing, their 4,000+ specialists deliver growth invention across Brand & Media, Experience, Commerce, CRM, and Technology & Data. Clients include Google, Lufthansa, Coach, eBay, and OpenAI.
Requirements
- 5–7 years of programmatic experience, with a proven track record of strategic planning and account leadership within an agency setting.
- Deep knowledge of the programmatic landscape, including SSP dynamics, Header Bidding, Clean Rooms, and Attribution modeling.
- Advanced proficiency in multiple DSPs (e.g., The Trade Desk, DV360, Amazon DSP, Walmart Connect) and Ad Servers (CM360).
- The ability to influence cross-functional teams and build implicit trust with senior client stakeholders.
- Ability to interpret complex data sets to identify high-level trends and provide strategic recommendations that move "hearts and minds."
- A "get sht done" mentality when it comes to troubleshooting technical issues or navigating industry shifts.
- A passion for collaboration and a commitment to nurturing talent within the Programmatic craft.
Responsibilities
- Steer the programmatic strategy for high-profile clients, ensuring that automated media buying is integrated into their broader business and marketing goals.
- Direct the implementation of 1st and 3rd party data strategies, helping clients navigate the cookie-less future through identity solutions and privacy-centric targeting.
- Act as a trusted advisor to senior client stakeholders, translating technical programmatic complexities into clear business value and growth opportunities.
- Lead the evaluation and onboarding of new programmatic tech partners, including DSPs, SSPs, and Dynamic Creative Optimization (DCO) platforms.
- Partner with Search, Social, and SEO leads to drive a "Total Media" approach, ensuring programmatic inventory complements other digital touchpoints.
- Identify and pitch proactive growth opportunities within your portfolio, contributing to the agency's organic revenue through strategic expansion.
- Manage and mentor a team of Managers and Associates, overseeing their tactical output and providing a clear path for their professional development.
Benefits
- Equal opportunity employer (EOE)
- Inclusive and barrier-free recruitment and selection process and workplace
- Confidential accommodations available
- E-Verify participant
- B Corp-certified company
- Purpose-driven work
- Open door for ideas to make the world a better place
- Flexibility in salary range
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Manager
Education Level
No Education Listed
