SEM Manager

PMG•Chicago, IL

About The Position

PMG is hiring an SEM Manager to guide its Paid Search Marketing team and deliver impactful search campaigns for clients. The role works in collaboration with media, creative, and analytics teams to develop full-funnel marketing strategies, build strong client relationships, and drive measurable results. The SEM Manager oversees campaign performance and implementation, analyzes data and budgets, and connects paid search with other marketing channels. The role also supports adoption and improvement of PMG’s proprietary operating platform, Alli, and mentors and manages team members.

Requirements

At least 5 years of experience in paid search, with a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
At least 2 years of people management experience, including mentoring, training, and guiding team members.
Advanced expertise managing paid search platforms such as Google Ads and Microsoft Ads and delivering measurable client results.
Proficiency in campaign management, including keyword research, ad copy optimization, and bidding strategies tailored to client goals.
Ability to analyze performance data and provide actionable insights and strategic recommendations.
Expertise in budget planning, optimization, and performance analysis to use resources efficiently and maximize ROI.
Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Google Analytics, and SQL for data management, analysis, and performance reporting.
Strong problem-solving skills and ability to identify improvement opportunities and implement solutions.
Strong communication and collaboration skills for aligning internal teams and clients on campaign goals.
Ability to integrate paid search strategies with broader marketing efforts, including PR, social, and programmatic campaigns.
Curiosity, adaptability, continual learning, and a customer-focused approach to client success.
People-focused leadership that fosters collaboration, innovation, and professional growth.

Responsibilities

Oversee search performance, evaluate results, identify optimization opportunities, and implement solutions for continuous improvement.
Lead the implementation of paid search strategies and campaigns aligned with client goals.
Produce performance reports covering metrics, revenue, and other paid search initiatives, with actionable insights and strategic recommendations.
Analyze campaign data and translate it into business impacts and strategic opportunities for clients.
Manage client relationships as a trusted advisor and align paid search strategies with broader business objectives.
Plan and allocate budgets, oversee monthly spend, and use resources efficiently to meet campaign goals.
Coordinate paid search strategies with PR, social, programmatic, and other channel initiatives.
Drive adoption of PMG’s proprietary platform, Alli, and collaborate across teams to enhance its effectiveness.
Monitor SEM industry trends and share insights and innovations with the team.
Lead testing and experimentation to refine paid search strategies and improve performance.
Mentor and manage a team, providing training and coaching in best practices and technical and soft skills, and fostering growth and collaboration.

Benefits

Annual performance-based bonus program, subject to program terms.
Learning and development programs, mentorship opportunities, and career advancement support.
Generous time off.
Paid parental leave.
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 for eligible health and well-being expenses.
Commuter benefits where available.
Eight paid volunteer hours each year.
Enterprise AI tools and ongoing AI training.