Associate Media Director - Paid Search

We Are Rosie•Boston, MA

1d•Remote

About The Position

Our agency client is seeking an experienced Associate Media Director to lead paid search strategy and execution for a major client account in an AI-evolving search landscape. This role requires a strategic leader who can balance hands-on campaign management with team oversight, client relationship building, and cross-functional collaboration while navigating the shift toward AI Overviews (AIO), AI-powered search experiences, and evolving Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) strategies. The ideal candidate brings 6-10+ years of paid search expertise with proven leadership experience and forward-thinking approach to AI's impact on search marketing.

Requirements

6-10+ years of hands-on paid search experience in agency or brand environments
Expert proficiency in Google Ads (Search, Shopping, Performance Max, Display, YouTube) and Microsoft Advertising
Deep understanding of AI's impact on search including AI Overviews (AIO), Answer Engine Optimization (AEO), and Search Generative Experience (SGE)
Proven track record managing multi-million dollar paid search budgets
Demonstrated success leading teams (2-4+ direct reports) with mentorship and development
Strong analytical skills with expertise in Google Analytics, conversion tracking, and attribution modeling in AI-assisted environments
Advanced knowledge of keyword research, match types, automated bidding strategies, and campaign structure best practices
Experience with Google Tag Manager, Google Analytics 4, and conversion tracking implementation
Excellent client-facing communication and presentation skills
Must be available to work EST hours (8am-5pm EST)

Nice To Haves

Experience developing strategies to maintain visibility in AI-generated search results and answer engines
Understanding of how conversational search and voice search impact paid search strategy
Experience working with higher education, B2B, or complex consideration funnel clients
Google Ads certifications (Search, Shopping, Display, Measurement, AI-Powered Performance Ads) and Microsoft Advertising certification
Experience with bid management platforms (SA360, Marin, Kenshoo) and automation tools
Knowledge of SEO principles, Answer Engine Optimization (AEO), and how organic and paid search work together in an AI-driven search ecosystem
Familiarity with CRO (conversion rate optimization) and landing page best practices
Experience with first-party data activation, Customer Match, and audience segmentation leveraging AI capabilities
Understanding of broader digital media ecosystem (social, programmatic, CTV)
Based in EST timezone (NYC, Boston, or surrounding areas preferred)

Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership
Develop and lead comprehensive paid search strategies across Google Ads, Microsoft Advertising (Bing), and other search platforms aligned with client business objectives
Own full-funnel search strategy from brand awareness through conversion, optimizing performance at each stage while adapting to AI-driven search experiences and reduced traditional SERP visibility
Provide strategic direction on campaign structure, keyword strategy, bidding approaches, and audience targeting in context of AI Overviews, SGE (Search Generative Experience), and evolving answer engines
Identify and implement platform betas including AI-powered features (Performance Max, Demand Gen, Gemini integration, automated bidding), and innovative tactics that leverage machine learning
Develop Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) strategies to ensure brand visibility in AIgenerated responses and conversational search results
Partner with planning, analytics, SEO, and creative teams to ensure integrated search marketing approach that accounts for AI-driven discovery shifts
Campaign Execution & Optimization
Lead hands-on campaign setup, account structure, keyword research, ad copy creation, and QA across search platforms with consideration for AI-influenced search behavior
Manage multi-million dollar search budgets with disciplined pacing, AI-assisted bid management, and performance monitoring
Develop and execute rigorous testing frameworks for ad copy, landing pages, automated bidding strategies (Target CPA, Target ROAS, Maximize Conversions), and audience segmentation
Implement conversion tracking, enhanced conversions, offline conversion imports, and advanced analytics while leveraging Google's AI capabilities for attribution modeling
Drive continuous optimization through search query mining, negative keyword management, performance analysis, and strategic use of broad match with AI-powered smart bidding
Optimize Quality Score, ad relevance, and landing page experience to improve efficiency in an increasingly AI-mediated search environment
Team Leadership & Development
Manage and mentor a team of 2-4 paid search specialists and coordinators
Provide guidance, training, and professional development to build team capabilities, including education on AI's impact on search marketing
Establish team workflows, QA processes, and best practices for campaign excellence in automated and AI-assisted campaign environments
Foster collaborative team environment aligned with the agency's integrated, no-ego culture
Client Management & Communication
Serve as primary paid search point of contact for client stakeholders
Present campaign strategies, performance updates, competitive insights, and optimization recommendations including implications of AI Overviews and changing search behavior
Translate complex search marketing concepts, AI-driven changes, and data into clear, actionable business insights
Build strong client relationships through proactive communication and strategic consultation on navigating the AI-transformed search landscape
Manage client expectations and navigate performance challenges with transparency and solutions
Platform & Vendor Partnerships
Cultivate relationships with Google and Microsoft platform representatives and support team
Secure beta access to AI-powered features, training opportunities, and value-added support for clients
Stay current on algorithm updates, automation features, AI capabilities (Gemini, Performance Max enhancements, SGE developments), and emerging search capabilities including AIO impact on SERP positioning