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 monitors and optimizes search campaign performance against client goals and budgets, translates campaign activity into business impact, and uses analysis and experimentation to improve results. The SEM Lead works closely with internal media, creative, analytics, and other teams, as well as external search partners, to align paid search with broader marketing initiatives. The role also supports adoption of PMG’s proprietary Alli platform and stays current on search marketing trends and innovations.

Requirements

At least 5 years of paid search experience and 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 analysis and performance reporting.
Excellent communication and collaboration skills for working with internal teams and external partners.
Ability to integrate paid search strategies with broader marketing efforts.
Curiosity and adaptability, with a commitment to learning about media innovation and prioritizing client success.
People-focused leadership, including leading by example, fostering collaboration and innovation, and supporting others’ professional growth.

Responsibilities

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

Benefits

Eligibility for PMG’s annual performance-based bonus program.
Learning and development programs, mentorship opportunities, and career advancement support.
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 volunteer hours each year.
Enterprise AI tools and ongoing training.