Manager SEM

This role is a strategic leadership position within a performance marketing environment, focused on driving measurable growth through paid search channels. You will own the end‑to‑end SEM strategy, managing campaign execution, optimization, and scaling across multiple accounts and industries. The position combines hands‑on technical expertise in search platforms with strong analytical and client‑facing responsibilities. You will translate business objectives into high‑performing paid search strategies while ensuring efficient budget allocation and strong ROI. Working closely with cross‑functional teams, you will contribute to broader marketing and revenue goals through data‑driven insights and experimentation. This is an opportunity to lead impactful SEM programs while mentoring junior talent in a fast‑paced, collaborative, and remote‑friendly environment.

Accountabilities

• Lead SEM strategy development and execution across platforms such as Google Ads and other search engines, ensuring alignment with client and business objectives.
• Manage campaign structure, scaling strategies, optimization efforts, and ongoing performance improvements to maximize ROI.
• Own budget management, forecasting, and performance tracking against key KPIs such as CPA, ROAS, and revenue targets.
• Translate business goals into actionable paid search strategies, ensuring clear execution plans and measurable outcomes.
• Develop and manage testing roadmaps, including bidding strategies, audience targeting, and creative experimentation.
• Analyze campaign performance data and deliver actionable insights to internal stakeholders and clients.
• Ensure accurate tracking, attribution, and data integrity across all SEM campaigns.
• Collaborate closely with strategy, analytics, and creative teams to ensure integrated campaign success.
• Mentor and support junior team members, contributing to team development and capability building.

Requirements

• 4+ years of hands‑on SEM / paid search experience, with a proven track record of managing and scaling successful campaigns.
• Strong expertise in Google Ads, including bidding strategies, optimization techniques, and campaign structuring.
• Solid analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex performance data and generate actionable insights.
• Experience managing budgets, forecasting performance, and optimizing for efficiency and ROI.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to clearly present insights and recommendations to stakeholders and clients.
• Experience working in an agency environment is required.
• Previous experience mentoring or managing team members is highly valued.
• Familiarity with CRM and marketing automation platforms is an asset.
• Proficiency with data tools such as Excel (including pivot tables and VLOOKUPs) is expected.
• Strong problem‑solving mindset with attention to detail and a results‑driven approach.

Benefits

• Competitive salary in the range of CAD 75,000 – 85,000, based on experience and market benchmarks.
• Flexible remote‑first work environment with EST working hours and occasional PST flexibility.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and wellness benefits.
• Paid time off, summer Fridays, and extended holiday closure during year‑end.
• Paid parental leave (up to 16 weeks for birthing parents).
• Retirement savings plan with company contributions (where applicable).
• Learning and development budget to support professional growth.
• Wellness support including premium access to mindfulness and mental health tools.
• Tech support including company‑provided equipment and monthly connectivity stipends.
• Collaborative culture focused on autonomy, ownership, and continuous learning.