Paid Media & Digital Marketing Lead

Ad Talent; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic digital marketing agency in Johannesburg is seeking a results-driven Paid Media Specialist. The ideal candidate has over 5 years of experience in managing paid social and digital campaigns, robust expertise in Meta and Google Ads, and a proven track record with significant campaign budgets. This role includes optimizing campaigns and collaborating with internal teams to align marketing strategies.

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage paid media campaigns across Meta and Google SEA.
• Continuously optimise campaigns to improve CPA and CAC.
• Provide regular reporting, insights, and actionable recommendations.

Skills

Managing large ad budgets

Data interpretation for decisions

Creative content scripting and briefings

Optimization of campaigns

Strong communication skills

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.

Responsibilities

• 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.