Director, Paid Search

Canvas Worldwide•El Segundo, CA

6d•Hybrid

About The Position

Canvas Worldwide is seeking a Director, Search (SEM) to own the strategic direction, performance outcomes, and operational excellence of paid search for one of their top clients. This role involves leading the evolution of search across traditional engines, emerging AI/LLM environments, and social search. The position requires deep platform expertise and leadership of a high-performing team. The Director will serve as the senior client lead for search, partnering closely with Strategy, Analytics, Data Science, and other channel leaders to shape integrated media strategy and measurement. Collaboration with the VP of Search is expected to influence the broader practice’s roadmap, innovation agenda, and operational standards. Canvas Worldwide is an independent media agency committed to providing creative solutions for brands that challenge the status quo and fosters an environment where all are welcome to push outside their comfort zones.

Requirements

Proven track record of success in growing and advancing search strategy in previous roles
Ability to present and sell strategies/plans through to the client
Strong knowledge of Search partners and bidding technology
Working knowledge of SEO and AEO/GEO concepts
Must have the ability to synthesize data into actionable insights and next steps
Experience managing large media budgets and achieving monthly goals for spend and key performance metrics
7+ years of Paid Search experience
3+ years of managing teams of 3+ members

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of Search Ads 360 is a plus
Automotive vertical experience is a plus

Responsibilities

Own performance outcomes, budget stewardship, and client satisfaction for your accounts.
Translate business objectives into search strategies that ladder into the broader media plan and marketplace dynamics.
Craft executive-ready narratives grounded in data, connecting performance to business impact and identifying opportunities to scale, refine, or reallocate spend.
Partner with cross-channel leads to ensure integrated planning, shared learning, and cohesive client storytelling.
Collaborate with Analytics and Strategy teams on forecasting and scenario planning to guide investment decisions.
Drive specialized initiatives in automation and generative AI for workflow optimization to improve efficiency and performance.
Stay ahead of search, AI, and privacy-driven measurement changes; translate implications into actionable guidance for clients and internal teams.
Lead, coach, and develop a team of search practitioners, fostering a culture of curiosity, innovation, and continuous improvement.
Set clear expectations and growth plans for team members.
Guide agendas for key partner meetings and executive presentations.
Advise clients and teams on how machine learning, automation, and generative AI can enhance search performance.
Demonstrate mastery of Search and Performance Max as well as how these products within with the partner tech stack and media ecosystem.
Partner with Analytics and Data Science on measurement frameworks including incrementality, conversion modeling, MMM/MTA, and privacy-safe attribution.
Uphold best practices standards across bidding automation, testing frameworks, QA and knowledge-sharing processes.
Evaluate and manage platform partners, tools, and vendors to ensure best-in-class execution.

Benefits

Generous medical, dental, vision, pet insurance, commuter benefits, disability and life insurance coverage
401(k) matching
Up to 14 holidays per year
A “Do Good Day”
Unlimited PTO
Employee social and wellness events
DEI Council
Auto purchase rebate program
Monthly wellness allowance
In-office amenities such as fresh kombucha and an in-house barista