Associate Director, Paid Search

Company Description

Hi there—at Razorfish, we’re leaders in what's next. Since the dawn of the internet, we’ve helped brands move first through every era of transformation, defining what digital means for business and now leading brands into the age of AI. Everyone has a prediction. Razorfish has a track record. Named a Most Innovative Agency three years running (2024–2026) by Campaign US, our work reflects a proven ability not just to anticipate what’s coming, but to help our clients actively shape the future. No matter the trend or cultural moment, delivering real business impact wouldn’t be possible without our people. We bring together curious, driven, and diverse thinkers who challenge convention, push boundaries, and hold a high bar for creative excellence. If you’re motivated to work alongside top performers, push the boundaries of what’s possible, and help define where technology, business, and marketing are headed next—this is the place to do it. Join us at razorfish.com.

About the Role

As the Associate Director of Search Marketing at Razorfish, you will transition from subject matter expertise in paid search to a strategic leadership role focusing on digital marketing as a whole. In this position, you will oversee the executional workflow of Search Supervisors, Search Strategists, and Search Coordinators, driving campaign performance while cultivating a high-performing team. You'll play a key role in developing points of view (POVs), playbooks, and strategic tests that not only optimize client outcomes but also enhance the overall effectiveness of our digital marketing initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Vision: Lead the development and execution of innovative search marketing strategies that align with client goals while integrating AI and emerging technologies to drive superior business performance.
• Client Relationship Management: Serve as the primary contact for clients, building strong relationships and deeply understanding their objectives to deliver tailored and effective search solutions.
• Innovate through AI-powered experiences: Create and orchestrate teams of AI agents to support daily search campaign operations, enhancing workflow efficiency and ensuring seamless execution of routine tasks.
• Campaign Oversight: Monitor and analyze campaign performance, providing actionable insights and data-driven recommendations to enhance ROI and overall effectiveness.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with media planning, creative, and analytics teams to ensure cohesive and integrated campaign strategies across all digital marketing channels.
• Data-Driven Insights: Utilize advanced analytics and AI tools to inform strategies and assess the effectiveness of search initiatives, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
• Quarterly Strategy Development: Create comprehensive quarterly plans and testing frameworks aligned with client expectations, incorporating industry best practices and insights.
• Risk Management and Quality Assurance: Ensure compliance with quality assurance processes and risk management protocols, documented via a RACI framework, to uphold campaign integrity.
• Industry Trends and Thought Leadership: Stay at the forefront of industry developments and advancements in digital marketing, sharing insights to position Razorfish as a thought leader.
• Business Development: Identify growth opportunities within existing accounts and collaborate on strategic proposals with senior leadership to expand service offerings.
• Training and Knowledge Sharing: Develop and implement training programs aimed at enhancing team skills and fostering a culture of continuous learning and best practices.
• Team Development: Support the onboarding of new talent and mentor staff to encourage professional growth and development.
• Team Management: Lead and inspire a team of 2-7 Search Supervisors, Strategists, and Coordinators, providing direction, feedback, and support for their professional growth.
• Cultivating a Collaborative Culture: Foster a high-energy, accountable team environment that prioritizes excellence in service delivery.
• Contributing to Thought Leadership: Actively contribute to the agency's thought capital by developing POVs and playbooks that outline best practices and innovative strategies in search marketing.
• Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Engage in initiatives designed to align efforts across departments, enhancing overall service offerings and client solutions.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in Search Engine Marketing (SEM) and digital marketing, with a successful track record in developing and executing effective strategies.
• 1-2 years of supervisory or leadership experience, demonstrating strong team management and mentorship skills.
• Advanced analytical skills for deriving actionable insights from data to inform campaign optimization.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with clients, teams, and stakeholders.
• Thorough understanding of integrated digital marketing strategies, including organic search, display, mobile, and social