Paid Search Director (SEM)

Job Description

Critical Mass is seeking a Paid Search Director (SEM) to lead enterprise-level accounts. The Director will own campaign strategy, team operations, and executive communications. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in in-platform optimizations and have experience building and mentoring paid search teams. They will foster strong relationships with both internal and external stakeholders, uncover insights from data, and translate them into growth-driving strategies.Role involves:

• Defining, executing, and optimizing SEM strategies for enterprise brands with $1M+ annual budgets
• Translating business objectives into actionable SEM strategies across Google, Microsoft, and emerging AI platforms
• Managing complex, multi-market campaigns including account structure, targeting, bid strategy, budget pacing, troubleshooting, and conversion optimization
• Leading iterative testing initiatives to drive incremental performance gains
• Delivering insightful reporting with strategic recommendations rooted in data
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver integrated search and media strategies
• Building and nurturing client relationships as a trusted SEM advisor
• Developing team members through coaching, feedback, and training
• Establishing and documenting operational workflows and best practices
• Participating in new business pitches and agency initiatives

Requirements:

• 8+ years of paid search experience, including 3+ years leading high-performing teams
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Track record of driving measurable performance improvements and managing large budgets
• Deep platform expertise across Google Ads, Microsoft Ads, and campaign management tools
• Strong understanding of retail/shopping campaigns
• Experience developing internal SEM infrastructure
• Strong analytics and reporting skills
• High proficiency with analytics tools such as GA4, Looker Studio, and Google Tag Manager
• Expertise in Excel and data manipulation
• Experience creating test-and-learn frameworks
• Ability to build positive client relationships and influence senior stakeholders
• Experience leveraging AI tools for SEM
• Passion for staying ahead of search trends
• High level of organization and dedication to continuous improvement

Role offers:

• Global maternity and parental leave
• Competitive benefits packages
• Vacation, compassionate leave, and sick days
• Access to online services for families and new parents
• Summer Fridays (off at 3:00 PM local time every Friday)
• 12 Affinity Groups
• Internal learning and development programs
• Enterprise-wide employee discounts