SEM Lead

PMG•Chicago, IL

About The Position

The SEM Lead shapes paid search marketing strategy, guides team members, and builds strong client relationships. The role works across media, creative, and analytics teams to develop campaigns that connect with audiences and deliver measurable results. It includes overseeing campaign performance and budgets, translating data into strategic recommendations, coordinating with search partners, and aligning paid search with broader marketing initiatives. The SEM Lead also drives adoption of PMG’s proprietary Alli platform, stays current on search innovation, leads experimentation, and supports the professional growth of team members.

Requirements

At least 5 years of experience in paid search, with a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
Advanced expertise managing paid search campaigns on platforms such as Google Ads and Microsoft Ads and delivering measurable client results.
Proficiency in data analysis, budget management, and reporting to optimize performance and use resources efficiently.
Experience with testing frameworks, including A/B testing and creative experimentation.
Strong skills in advanced paid search strategies, including keyword expansion, audience segmentation, and bidding optimization.
Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Google Analytics for actionable insights and detailed performance reports.
Excellent communication and collaboration skills to align with internal teams and external partners.
Ability to integrate paid search strategies with broader marketing efforts across channels.
Curiosity and adaptability, with a commitment to media innovation and client success.
People-focused leadership that fosters collaboration, innovation, and professional growth by leading by example and nurturing strong relationships.

Responsibilities

Monitor and optimize search campaign performance to meet client goals and budgets, implementing solutions to improve outcomes.
Lead implementation of paid search strategies and translate campaign activities into actionable business impacts for clients.
Create client reports that track key metrics, revenue, and paid search initiatives, and provide actionable performance insights.
Analyze paid search data and develop strategic recommendations that drive measurable client results.
Manage relationships with search partners and maintain collaboration and alignment on key initiatives.
Plan and allocate monthly paid search budgets to use resources efficiently and achieve campaign goals.
Collaborate across channels to align paid search with broader marketing initiatives, including PR, social, and programmatic efforts.
Drive adoption of PMG’s proprietary platform, Alli, and work cross-functionally to optimize its integration into paid search programs.
Stay informed about SEM trends and changes, sharing insights and integrating innovations into strategies.
Lead a test-and-learn approach using experimentation and analysis to continuously improve paid search strategies.
Mentor and train team members, sharing best practices and technical expertise and fostering their professional growth.

Benefits

Eligibility for PMG’s annual performance-based bonus program, subject to program terms.
Learning and development programs, mentorship opportunities, and support for career advancement.
Generous time off.
Paid parental leave.
Competitive retirement benefits, including employer contributions or matching where applicable.
Fertility and family-building benefits for eligible employees and their spouses or partners.
Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
Optional pet insurance.
Company-funded Lifestyle Spending Account support for eligible health and well-being expenses.
Commuter benefits where available.
Eight paid hours each year for volunteering.
Enterprise AI tools and ongoing training.