Senior Manager, Paid Search

VML; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 45,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

VML is seeking a Senior Manager, Paid Search to lead the development and execution of client search strategies. You will support tactical execution, performance reporting, and cross-team collaboration to drive growth.

You will work with enterprise clients to expand their knowledge of search marketing, develop measurement frameworks with analytics, and produce compelling presentations for clients and teams.

Qualifications

• 3+ years paid search activation, agency setting preferred.
• Experience with Google Ads and Microsoft Advertising.
• Understanding of digital advertising with cross-channel tactics.
• Proficient with third-party ad serving, media research and analysis tools.

Responsibilities

• Work with account teams to document business, technical and reporting requirements and develop solutions.
• Identify opportunities, set goals, and outline strategic and tactical plans.
• Help enterprise clients expand knowledge of search engine marketing and drive adoption.
• Collaborate with analytics to develop measurement frameworks and optimize campaigns.
• Develop case studies for new business and client relationships.
• Coordinate internal teams and agency initiatives cross-channel.
• Document client history, processes, contact info, initiatives, and site changes.
• Deliver effective verbal and written presentations for teams and clients.
• Oversee trafficking, ensure tags implemented, and structure campaigns for analytics.
• Stay current on evolving search and technology trends.

Skills

Strong client-facing skills

Excellent organization

Strong communication

Public speaking

Education

3+ years paid search

Tools

Google Ads

Microsoft Advertising

ad serving tools

media research tools

analysis tools

Job description

Who We Are

VML is a leading creative company that combines brand experience, customer experience, and commerce, creating connected brandsto drive growth. VML is celebrated for its innovative and award-winning human-first work for clients including AstraZeneca, Colgate-Palmolive, Dell, Ford, Microsoft, Nestlé, The Coca-Cola Company, and Wendy’s. In 2026, VML was named Campaign’s Global Network of the Year and ranked #2 Creative Network of the Year at Cannes Lions. VML’s global network spans 55+ markets with principal offices in Buenos Aires, Kansas City, London, New York, São Paulo, Shanghai and Singapore.

VML is part of WPP http:/wpp.com/ ;!!IfJP2Nwhk5Z0yJ43lA!L_cfT4E3gsmmDY1lVQTB6ihlfPeBl9X4sMM2KI6iWZYexC2nCeZ9oxgP9qvgbrqxIBpx82rGb_mWqh5F0zKxq5_dP7Y$ the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands. Powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform WPP Open, WPP unites cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, creativity, production, enterprise solutions and expert strategic counsel.

For more information, please visit www.vml.com and follow along on LinkedIn #WeAreVML.

Who we are looking for:

The Senior Manager, Paid Search oversees the development and implementation of search strategies for our clients. You will support search strategies, tactical execution, and performance reporting.

What you’ll do:

• Work with account teams and clients to understand and document business, technical and reporting requirements, and to develop solutions to ensure success
• Identify opportunities, set goals, develop strategic plans, and outline tactical approach to executing plans
• Help enterprise clients expand their knowledge and use of search engine marketing and drive internal client adoption
• Work with the analytics team to develop and evolve measurement frameworks for campaigns, measure performance, and make recommendations for optimization
• Develop case studies based on past work for new business initiatives and to validate client relationships
• Coordinate internal team and agency initiatives working cross-channel to achieve team goals
• Document client history, processes, contact information, major initiatives, past recommendations and projects, and site changes
• Effective and persuasive presentations (verbal and written) for teams and clients
• Oversee trafficking, ensure all required tags are implemented, and structure campaign for desired analytics outcome
• Stay current on the constantly changing search and technology industry

Who you are:

• Strong client facing presentation skills
• Exceptional organization and communication skills
• Highly motivated with a strong desire to meet or exceed expectations
• Enjoy working in a fast-paced and collaborative environment
• Exceptional attention to detail and the ability to meet aggressive deadlines
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities including public speaking and presenting

What you’ll need:

• 3+ years experience in paid search activation, agency setting highly preferred
• Demonstrated experience with paid search including Google Ads and Microsoft Advertising
• Understanding of the digital advertising industry, with knowledge of cross channel performance media tactics
• Proficient using their party ad serving tools, media research tools, and analysis tools

The base salary range for this position at the time of this posting is indicated below. Individual compensation varies based on job-related factors, including location, business needs, level of responsibility, experience, and qualifications. We offer a competitive benefits package.

$45,000—$100,000 USD

We believe the best work happens when we’re together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That’s why we’ve adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office an average of four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.

WPP (VML) is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.