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Empower Media is one of the largest independent media agencies in the country, dedicated to crafting innovative, data-driven media strategies that drive measurable business results. We specialize in integrated media planning, omnichannel activation, and breakthrough ideas across both traditional and digital platforms. As an agency on the rise, we're looking for bold thinkers and strategic leaders to shape the future of media with us.
Position Overview:
We’re looking for a digital-first, proactive and innovative leader to run point on all things Search and Social for a large retailer with sophisticated needs - someone who can connect platform knowledge with broader business outcomes. As VP of Search and Social, you’ll guide the e-commerce strategy and first-to-market opportunities for one of our largest performance-driven brands. You’re someone who understands the urgency of real-time data, lives inside Google Ads and social platforms, and thrives at the intersection of media, commerce, and measurement. You’ll lead a team of search and social pros and ensure we’re not just executing campaigns—but setting the bar for what’s next.
This person must be plugged in with Google/YouTube, Meta, Pinterest, Snap, TikTok, X, Reddit, fluent in GA4, familiar with shopper marketing, and driven by data, with a proven track record in driving e-commerce growth through paid search and social.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead paid search strategy and execution across platforms including Google Ads, Bing, Amazon Ads, and Walmart Connect, with an emphasis on Shopping and Performance Max campaigns
- Use GA4 and analytics tools to uncover insights, optimize performance, and present clear, data-backed recommendations
- Oversee campaign development, activation, and performance across major platforms: Meta, Pinterest, TikTok, Snap, LinkedIn, X (Twitter), and emerging channels
- Plan and build social strategic initiatives within above platforms
- Verify and execute campaigns (including paid social accounts, analytics, etc.)
- Stay connected with platform partners like Google to identify trends and emerging features—test and implement new tactics to keep clients ahead of the curve
- Serve as a strategic advisor to clients, translating performance data into smart growth strategies and actionable plans
- Identify and communicate key insights and opportunities for optimization, both internally and externally
- Support new business efforts with compelling POVs and integrated search strategies
- Lead and develop a high-performing Search and Social team through auditing current campaigns (strategy, platform set-up, QA protocol, etc.), building scalable processes, encouraging experimentation, and fostering a culture of accountability
- Collaborate with Planning, Analytics, Creative, and Commerce teams to align search & social with broader marketing goals and deliver a unified customer experience
- Serve as the main point of contact for platform partners, leveraging relationships to unlock innovation, betas, and strategic support
- Lead the creation of client-facing presentations, performance reports, POVs, and testing roadmaps
- Develop a roadmap that is leading the client on a clear path of innovation across search & social
What You Bring:
- 10+ years in paid search and social with a strong focus on e-commerce and shopper experience
- Expert-level knowledge of Google Ads, Merchant Center, SA360, GA4 and social platforms (add in Microsoft Ads?)
- Experience managing Shopping campaigns, Smart Bidding, and Performance Max
- Ability to manage shopping feed recommendations + feed management, and deliver compelling search ad copy
- Proven success in using GA4 to drive performance insights and client strategy
- Comfortable working directly with platform reps and testing new tools
- Strong client-facing experience with a consultative and strategic approach
- Strong leadership, presentation, and communication skills
- Comfortable managing multiple clients and priorities at once
- Deep understanding of platform tools, tracking, audience segmentation, and A/B testing methodology
- Experience with third-party search and social management tools
- Experience with 3P measurement and audience platforms
- Strong analytical mindset and comfort using data to inform decisions
- A natural leader who excels in fast-paced, collaborative environments and effortlessly shifts between hands-on contributor and strategic coach
Success Looks Like:
- Clients are hitting or exceeding ROAS and revenue goals and receiving regular thought leadership
- Campaign quality, efficiency, and innovation
- The team is moving at the speed of retail and excels at real time pivots
- Search and social campaigns are built on data, insight, and continuous testing
- Your team is confident, growing, and delivering high-impact work
- The agency is recognized by clients and partners for innovation
Why Empower?
- Work with high-profile brands that are shaping culture
- Be part of a collaborative, entrepreneurial team that values big thinking and bold ideas
- Competitive compensation and benefits, including professional growth opportunities
- Hybrid work model: Tuesday–Thursday in our downtown Chicago office, with flexibility the rest of the week
Ready to Empower the Future of Media?
Join us and bring your strategic vision to a team that’s redefining what a media agency can be.
Seniority level
Seniority level
Director
Employment type
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Job function
Advertising and MarketingIndustries
Advertising Services
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Inferred from the description for this job
Medical insurance
Vision insurance
401(k)
Paid maternity leave
Paid paternity leave
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