Paid Search Manager - AI-Driven Campaign Leader

Starcom; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 75,000 - 108,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid Family Care for 12 weeks+

Adoption & Fertility support

Pet adoption support

Employee Assistance Programs

Tuition Assistance

Flexible time off and holidays

Work Your World program

Job summary

Starcom in Chicago seeks a Paid Search Manager to lead a dedicated team and oversee the execution, optimization, and reporting of paid search campaigns. You will translate performance data into actionable insights while collaborating with senior leaders to guide strategy.

You will leverage AI-driven platform features and maintain strong client relationships, delivering high-quality results and proactive recommendations across campaigns.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of biddable media experience with a focus on paid search.
• 1+ year of hands-on experience managing and optimizing paid search campaigns across major platforms.
• Experience applying paid search across both brand-building and direct response objectives.
• Understanding of traditional and digital media planning principles.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Prior people management or leadership experience preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite with intermediate to advanced Excel skills.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher preferred.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage the daily workflow of paid search campaigns, including proposal development, campaign activation, ongoing optimization, and post-buy analysis.
• Supervise and support a team of paid search practitioners, providing guidance on execution, prioritization, and performance management.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure integrated and effective delivery.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships, serving as a trusted partner and ensuring expectations are met.
• Apply paid search expertise to identify client needs and opportunities, adapting approaches as needed.
• Lead optimization and performance recommendations based on reporting and insights.
• Utilize AI-powered features (smart bidding, audience signals) to drive efficiency.
• Develop budget and performance projections for testing new search partners or tactics.

Skills

biddable media

paid search

analysis

communication

leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree or higher

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Starcom in Chicago seeks a Paid Search Manager to lead a dedicated team and oversee the execution, optimization, and reporting of paid search campaigns. You will translate performance data into actionable insights while collaborating with senior leaders to guide strategy.

You will leverage AI-driven platform features and maintain strong client relationships, delivering high-quality results and proactive recommendations across campaigns.