Manager, Media Activation Retail Search

The role

Lead retail search activation and optimization across major retail media networks. Translate client business goals into performance-driven search strategies, manage campaign execution, and coach junior team members.

What you will do

• Lead retail search activation and strategy across major retail media platforms, including sponsored products, paid search, and other biddable retail media.
• Manage campaign strategy and execution across Amazon, Walmart, Instacart, Target, Kroger, Criteo/CitrusAd, and emerging retail media networks.
• Develop and optimize keyword, bidding, budget, targeting, and product-level strategies against client KPIs.
• Build testing and optimization frameworks across keywords, audiences, placements, products, bids, and budgets.
• Develop performance forecasts and recommendations using historical trends, promotional calendars, and business goals.
• Identify opportunities around retailer promotions, seasonal events, and new ad products.
• Translate complex performance data into clear recommendations for clients and internal stakeholders.
• Ensure campaign quality, governance, trafficking, billing accuracy, and best practices.
• Troubleshoot platform and campaign delivery issues with partners.
• Lead, coach, and develop junior team members.

Required qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Business, Analytics, Marketing, Communications, Advertising, or equivalent professional work experience.
• 3+ years of experience in performance media with significant hands-on experience in retail search and/or paid search.
• Experience activating and optimizing campaigns across major retail media networks such as Amazon, Walmart, Instacart, Target, Kroger, or Criteo/CitrusAd.
• Experience using retail media management and bid optimization platforms such as Pacvue, Skai, Epsilon, or similar.
• Strong understanding of retail search fundamentals, including keyword strategy, bidding, budget management, targeting, and measurement.
• Understanding of how retail search integrates with programmatic, paid social, traditional media, and commerce strategies.
• Ability to connect media performance to business outcomes such as sales, margin, inventory, forecasting, and promotional planning.
• Experience managing and developing direct reports.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
• Experience working across multiple teams and functions.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Benefits

• Competitive medical insurance
• Group retirement plans
• Vision and dental insurance
• Significant paid time off
• Preferential partner discounts
• Employee mental health awareness days
• Access to WPP Media and WPP global networks for learning and connections
• Employee resource groups and in-office events

Before you apply

• If you need accommodations or flexibility, discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.
• Benefits may vary by office or country.

About the company

WPP Media is WPP's AI-driven media operating unit, bringing together media, data, and partnerships. WPP Unite is a specialized unit delivering integrated marketing solutions for strategic clients.