Senior Paid Search Director: Strategy, Growth & Leadership

Zenith; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension

Life Assurance

Private Medical

Reflection Days

Shared Parental Leave

Job summary

Zenith International, part of Publicis Groupe, is hiring a Paid Search Associate Director to shape high-performing search strategies and drive client growth. You’ll lead a hands-on team, turn insights into action, and partner with clients and specialists to deliver measurable improvements.

The role blends strategic thinking with operational leadership, uses automation and bid-management tech, and offers a collaborative culture with learning opportunities.

Qualifications

• Proven track record managing paid search campaigns and translating client objectives into strategies.
• Experience with Google Ads and Microsoft Advertising; proficient in reporting and optimisation tools.
• Strong client relationships with senior stakeholders and strategic guidance ability.
• Organised with ability to prioritise multiple tasks while ensuring quality.
• Experience supporting or leading others with a collaborative approach.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day paid search directions, aligning activity with client business strategy.
• Develop long-term search strategies for sustainable growth and performance gains.
• Build trusted relationships with senior clients, offering clear guidance and high-quality service.
• Guide the team to deliver operational excellence with clear priorities and processes.
• Utilise automation and bid-management tech to identify and address opportunities.
• Collaborate with agency specialists to develop integrated solutions and new commercial opportunities.
• Mentor and recognise team performance and development.

Skills

Paid search management

Google Ads

Microsoft Advertising

Analytics & reporting

Client relationship management

Team leadership / coaching

Automation & AI in bidding

Tools

Google Ads

Microsoft Advertising

Bid-management tools

Job description

Zenith International, part of Publicis Groupe, is hiring a Paid Search Associate Director to shape high-performing search strategies and drive client growth. You’ll lead a hands-on team, turn insights into action, and partner with clients and specialists to deliver measurable improvements.

The role blends strategic thinking with operational leadership, uses automation and bid-management tech, and offers a collaborative culture with learning opportunities.