What is a Senior PPC Manager?
A Senior PPC Manager is a paid search strategist who architects, optimises, and scales PPC ecosystems across Google Ads, Bing Ads, Shopping, and Performance Max. They use GA4, GTM, platform dashboards, and automation frameworks to reduce CPA, improve ROAS, and manage high-value ad budgets with precision and accountability.
Key Takeaways
Designs scalable PPC structures
Balances automation with control
Leads testing, insights, and optimisation
Connects paid search to revenue outcomes
Our Clients
FAQ
What does a Senior PPC Manager actually do?
They architect search, shopping, and Performance Max campaigns, optimise budgets, run creative tests, refine keyword targeting, manage bidding strategies, and report performance tied to CPA, ROAS, and revenue.
What’s the difference between a PPC Manager and a Senior PPC Manager?
A PPC Manager executes campaigns. A Senior PPC Manager leads strategy, manages large budgets, oversees testing frameworks, and mentors junior specialists.
Should a Senior PPC Manager handle both strategy and execution?
Yes, top performers design the strategy and execute the optimisation so data, budgets, and testing align.
How has AI changed this role?
Automation optimises bidding and placements, while Senior PPC Managers guide algorithms, validate data, test creative, and make commercial decisions AI cannot.
Role Requirements for an Senior PPC Manager:
Hard Skills
Scalable campaign architecture
Keyword intent mapping
Bid strategy control
Tracking implementation
Performance reporting
Strategic Capabilities
Automation oversight
Predictive analytics
Multi-channel alignment
Creative testing
Conversion optimisation
Soft Skills
Clear communication
Cross-team collaboration
Analytical problem-solving
Leadership mentoring
Strategic prioritisation
Key Insights for Structuring the Senior PPC Manager Role
Strategy drives scalable PPC systems
Automation requires human oversight
Creative + copy testing lifts CTR
Data interpretation shapes decisions
Strong leadership improves consistency
Salary Insights for Senior PPC Manager
Typical Salary Benchmarks
| Region | Typical Salary Range | Top-Tier Roles |
|---|---|---|
| United States | $100,000 – $140,000 | $150,000 – $170,000+ |
| United Kingdom | £55,000 – £80,000 | £85,000 – £100,000+ |
| Australia | AU$100,000 – AU$130,000 | AU$140,000 – AU$160,000+ |
Key Salary Factors
Automation + PMax fluency
Budget scale experience
Multi-channel capability
Analytics + attribution skill
Leadership responsibility
Recommendation
Offer performance incentives tied to CPA, ROAS, or revenue. Provide hybrid flexibility and clear ownership of paid search strategy to attract senior-level candidates.
Factors Influencing Senior PPC Manager Salary
Level of Experience
Geographic Location and Market
Company Size and Industry
Prioritise candidates with large-budget experience
Validate GA4 + attribution fluency
Ask for real past ROAS improvements
Assess their PMax and automation judgment
Check their testing frameworks for copy + audiences
Ensure they mentor and upskill junior PPC staff
How Long Does It Take to Hire a Senior PPC Manager?
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 a Senior PPC Manager (Structured Process)
Define goals and KPIs
Clarify PPC targets such as CPA, ROAS, revenue contribution
Specify platforms, budgets, and required automations
Source senior PPC leaders
Target candidates with experience scaling six-figure or multi-channel accounts
Run a strategic assessment
Assign a $100K/month optimisation or scaling scenario to evaluate decision-making
Interview for strategy + technical depth
Validate automation oversight, bidding logic, creative testing, and attribution fluency
Build a 30/60/90-day onboarding plan
Account audit
Tracking validation
Testing roadmap creation
Budget optimisation improvements
Ready to Hire an Senior PPC Manager?
Work with SEO for Hire to recruit a Senior PPC Manager who drives scale, improves efficiency, and turns paid search into a predictable profit engine.
