What is a Paid Media Lead?
A Paid Media Lead is a cross-channel performance strategist who manages paid campaigns across Google Ads, Meta Ads, LinkedIn Ads, TikTok Ads, and programmatic platforms. They use GA4, Looker Studio, automation tools (Performance Max, Advantage+), and creative testing systems to turn ad spend into predictable, scalable growth.
Key Takeaways
Oversees multi-channel paid ecosystems
Balances automation with human strategy
Aligns data, creative, and performance
Converts ad spend into measurable growth
Our Clients
FAQ
What does a Paid Media Lead actually do?
They manage performance across all paid channels, lead optimisation, design multi-platform strategies, guide creative testing, and connect analytics with commercial outcomes.
How is a Paid Media Lead different from a Paid Media Manager?
Managers execute. Leads oversee multi-channel strategy, cross-team coordination, reporting structure, and commercial alignment.
Should a Paid Media Lead manage both strategy and execution?
Yes. Top performers connect strategy with hands-on optimisation, ensuring accountability and efficiency.
How has automation changed this role?
Automation runs delivery; Paid Media Leads guide structure, creative, targeting, attribution, and cross-channel insights.
Role Requirements for a Paid Media Lead:
Hard Skills
Campaign management
Budget allocation
Data analysis
Creative testing
Cross-channel optimisation
Future-Proof Skills
Automation oversight
Attribution modelling
Predictive forecasting
Workflow automation
Video strategy
Soft Skills
Clear communication
Team leadership
Commercial judgment
Collaboration skill
Problem solving
Key Insights for Hiring a Paid Media Lead
Paid media now functions as a unified ecosystem, not siloed channels.
Strategy only works when paired with technical execution.
Automation requires human judgment to avoid wasted spend.
Data should guide both creative and commercial decisions.
Full-funnel collaboration with SEO + CRO increases ROI.
Leadership structures teams for consistency and scalability.
Salary Guidance for Hiring a Paid Media Lead (2026)
Typical Salary Benchmarks
| Region | Typical Salary Range | Top-Tier Roles |
|---|---|---|
| United States | $95,000 – $130,000 | $140,000 – $160,000+ |
| United Kingdom | £55,000 – £80,000 | £85,000 – £95,000+ |
| Australia | AU$95,000 – AU$130,000 | AU$140,000 – AU$150,000+ |
Key Salary Factors
Multi-channel expertise
Automation proficiency
Budget scale handled
Creative testing ability
Cross-functional leadership
Factors Influencing a Paid Media Lead Salary
Level of Experience
Geographic Location and Market
Company Size and Industry
Look for candidates who can articulate cross-channel strategy clearly.
Validate GA4 and automation fluency during interviews.
Assess creative testing frameworks, they’re central to paid success.
Prioritise commercial thinkers, not just platform operators.
Ensure they can manage reporting across multiple stakeholders.
How Long Does It Take to Hire a Paid Media Lead?
Hiring typically takes 4–6 weeks, depending on assessment depth and candidate availability.
SEO for Hire’s sourcing and evaluation process reduces this timeline to under 25 days.
How to Hire for a Paid Media Lead (with SEO for Hire)
Define channel scope + KPIs
Clarify paid platforms, goals, and success metrics (ROAS, CPA, LTV).
Source cross-channel specialists
Target candidates with experience managing Google, Meta, LinkedIn, TikTok, and programmatic together.
Run a strategic assessment
Assign a 90-day scaling plan or multi-channel audit task.
Interview for strategy + hands-on skill
Validate their automation use, creative testing logic, and commercial decision-making.
Evaluate collaboration + communication ability
Ensure alignment with CRO, SEO, analytics, and creative teams.
Build a 30/60/90-day plan
Include testing cadence, attribution validation, and budget optimisation milestones.
Ready to Hire a Paid Media Lead?
Work with SEO for Hire to recruit a Paid Media Lead who unifies strategy, creative, and analytics into a single, scalable growth engine.
Book your consultation to begin.
