Paid Media & Digital Marketing Lead

Ad Talent Africa; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 500 000 - 700 000; Full time

Job summary

A digital marketing agency in Johannesburg is looking for a Paid Media Specialist to lead and manage paid media campaigns across platforms such as Meta and Google SEA. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience and a proven track record of managing large campaign budgets. You will be responsible for optimizing campaigns, managing budgets, and providing insights for improved performance. Strong communication skills and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment are essential.

Qualifications

• 5+ years’ experience running paid social and digital advertising campaigns.
• Expertise in Meta Ads and Google Search Ads (SEA).
• A proven track record managing $1M+ in campaign budgets.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage paid media campaigns across Meta and Google SEA.
• Continuously optimise campaigns to improve CPA and CAC.
• Plan and manage ad budgets ensuring maximum return on spend.
• Provide regular reporting and actionable recommendations.

Skills

Digital marketing strategy

Data interpretation

Campaign optimization

Creative content scripting

Budget management

Tools

Meta Ads

Google Search Ads (SEA)

Job description

Who Are We:

We are a growing team with big ambitions, and we’re looking to strengthen our digital presence through strategic, performance-driven paid media campaigns. Our goal is simple: convert interest into action and turn traffic into loyal customers. We are seeking someone who understands the full digital funnel and can make a meaningful impact through expertly crafted and optimised campaigns.

Who We Looking For:

A hands‑on, results‑driven Paid Media Specialist with a strong foundation in digital marketing strategy. You’re confident managing large ad budgets, can interpret data to drive decisions, and have a sharp eye for compelling creative. You’ll thrive in a fast‑paced environment and bring both strategic thinking and executional excellence.

What Will you do:

• Lead and manage paid media campaigns across Meta (Facebook & Instagram) and Google SEA.
• Script, brief, and schedule high‑performing ad content (text, photo, and video).
• Continuously optimise campaigns to improve CPA (Cost Per Acquisition) and CAC (Customer Acquisition Cost).
• Plan and manage ad budgets across platforms, ensuring maximum return on spend.
• Align paid campaigns with wider marketing and brand strategies.
• Provide regular reporting, insights, and actionable recommendations.
• Collaborate closely with internal teams to maintain cohesive marketing messaging.
• Ensure all digital activity reflects and supports the broader goals of the business.

What You Will Need:

• 5+ years’ experience running paid social and digital advertising campaigns.
• Expertise in Meta Ads and Google Search Ads (SEA).
• A proven track record managing $1M+ in campaign budgets over recent years.
• A solid grasp of branding and marketing strategy.
• Experience scripting and briefing creative for ads across various formats.
• Demonstrated ability to optimise campaign performance through data‑led insights.
• Ability to work independently, make decisions quickly, and adapt in real time.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Bonus: Experience leading a team or managing junior performance marketers.