How a Global SEO Media Brand Hired an AI-Savvy Organic Growth Leader to Scale Content & Authority
When Backlinko needed to scale organic growth inside a fast-moving educational/publishing environment, they didn’t want a traditional SEO manager.
They needed an AI-native operator who could systemise content, strengthen brand authority, and future-proof growth.
After working with SEO for Hire, Backlinko secured an Organic Growth Leader that is now operating on a Head of Growth trajectory across Backlinko and SEMrush.
Where Speed Meets Quality
Talent Precision
AI-native SaaS growth leaders, rigorously pre-qualified.
Strategic Validation
Real-world execution tested before final interviews.
Long-Term Leverage
Placed leader now driving multi-channel (Backlinko + SEMrush) brand growth.
Filling the Organic Growth Manager role at Backlinko required finding someone who could do far more than your typical SEO position, that’s why the Backlinko / Semrush team came to us
We needed a person who could take ownership of day-to-day operations at one of SEO’s most respected brands, while simultaneously leading video strategy across both Backlinko and Semrush.
The dual remit made this a genuinely rare hire and finding someone with the range to execute across both was no small task.
Amanda was that person, and the team couldn’t be happier with how she’s hit the ground running.”
Josh Peacock
CEO of SEO for Hire
What are the Challenges of Hiring an Organic Growth Manager?
Backlinko approached us to hire an Organic Growth Manager who could:
• Scale content and SEO production across the brand
• Be highly adept with AI workflows
• Introduce new SOPs and operational structure
• Adapt quickly within a high-paced SaaS environment
• Stay ahead of the evolving SEO landscape
• Confidently contribute opinions and manage community presence
• Support broader media expansion including video
This wasn’t a traditional SEO hire. It required a hybrid operator: part content strategist, part systems builder, part growth leader.
How did our Team Help Backlinko (SEMrush) Hire SEO Talent?
We ran a targeted headhunting process focused on high-calibre SaaS operators (clients preference).
Candidate Criteria:
• Experience in fast-moving SaaS environments
• Proven ability to scale content engines
• Comfortable building and refining SOPs
• Strong AI fluency in content production
• Confident operating in public-facing SEO communities
We headhunted and presented 8–10 highly aligned candidates, each pre-qualified for technical depth, operational maturity and cultural fit.
The process included:
• Initial chemistry call
• Practical task to assess thinking and execution
• Final leadership alignment
We stayed close throughout the extended timeline to ensure momentum and alignment on both sides
“This was a difficult position for a number of reasons.
We needed someone that was confident enough to come into an organisation that has rightfully established a strong reputation within the industry and try to take it an extra mile.
Additionally, Someone that:
- Had experience across YouTube as well as more traditional SEO.
- Understood the importance of video content.
- Was confident with Metamarketing
And most importantly, we needed someone who wasn’t afraid to be the face of SEO for one of the most well-respected names in the industry.”
Daris Benallal
Head of Recruitment for SEO for Hire
How did Backlinko Benefit from Our Services?
We successfully placed our talent (Amanda) as Organic Growth Manager.
Since joining, Amanda has:
• Taken over day-to-day operational responsibilities for Backlinko
• Strengthened content production systems
• Integrated AI into workflows
• Supported expansion into video across Backlinko + SEMrush
She has since stepped into a broader Head of Growth trajectory within the brand.
Backlinko's Feedback
Here’s what Leigh McKenzie (Backlinko’s Head of Growth) shared with our CEO after the hire:
Leigh McKenzie
Head of Growth at Backlinko
That’s the impact of placing the right operator.
Not just filling a role, but unlocking strategic leverage.
Why this Matters
SEO media brands today don’t need more executors.
They need:
• AI-native growth leaders
• Operators who can build systems
• Content strategists who understand brand and performance
• People who can evolve with search in real time
For category-defining brands like Backlinko, the right hire compounds growth.
Results Summary
Backlinko secured an AI-native Organic Growth leader who systemised content, strengthened operations, and stepped into broader growth leadership across Backlinko and SEMrush, with a promotion to Head of Organic at Backlinko.
With Backlinko as a valued partner of SEO for Hire, the team were able to achieve:
Scaled Content Production
Introduced structure to increase output without sacrificing quality.
AI-Integrated Workflows
Embedded AI into research, drafting, and optimisation processes.
Operational SOPs Implemented
Standardised systems to improve efficiency and repeatability.
Expanded into Video Growth
Supported strategic rollout across Backlinko and SEMrush channels.
Leadership Trajectory Established
Progressed from manager to broader growth leadership responsibilities, and a title promotion to Head of Organic.
FAQs
How Does SEO For Hire Find the top 1% of SEO talent?
We’ve built the largest global network of SEOs—over 52,000 strong—curated through events, content funnels, and referrals. Our vetting process tests real-world skills, communication, and adaptability.
What Roles can SEO For Hire Help Fill?
We recruit across the SEO spectrum—from Junior SEOs to VP and even CEO, covering technical SEO, content strategy, and SEO product management.
How Fast can You Fill a Role?
95% of our roles are filled within 28 days. We often deliver pre-vetted candidates for urgent roles in under 10 days.
What Makes Your Candidates Stick Around?
We ensure long-term alignment on values, goals, and team fit—leading to a 30% boost in retention. All placements include a one-year satisfaction guarantee.
Do You Work with Startups or Large Enterprises?
Both. From nimble startup teams to global SEO operations, we tailor our approach to suit your scale and culture.