SEM Data Optimisation Manager

SEM Data Optimisation ManagerRemote-first but office available (UK preferred) | ~£75,000 base + annual bonusWe’re partnering exclusively with a global leader in online travel experiences to find their next Paid Search Data Technology Manager — a rare opportunity for someone working at the intersection of performance marketing, martech, data engineering and data science.This remote-first role sits at the heart of a high-impact SEM function, where technical innovation and data-led strategy are critical to growth. You won’t just support campaigns — you’ll help engineer the systems and signals that drive one of the largest paid search programmes in the travel space.Why This Role MattersIn today’s performance landscape, paid search is driven as much by intelligent data usage as it is by creative strategy. This role is central to powering sophisticated bidding systems using first-party data, advanced modelling, and automation.You’ll report directly to a senior leader with a strong technical and commercial background, in a culture that prioritizes ownership over micromanagement and impact over process.What You’ll DoOwn the data layer for one of the largest SEM programmes in travel tech, helping to build custom signals that power smarter bidding strategies.Own and optimise data integrations between internal systems and platforms like Google Ads, SA360, and BigQuery.Monitor and troubleshoot pipeline operations to ensure seamless signal flow into bidding systems.Collaborate with data science and engineering teams to enhance SEM targeting through better data use and modelling.Document workflows, drive automation, and proactively introduce new technologies and tools.Lead key innovation projects. Past projects have involved:Developing lifetime value models based on booking and customer data and integrating them into bidding algorithms.Trialling non-booking behavioural signals (like product availability views) to improve campaign efficiency.Experimenting with first-party data integrations and custom audiences to unlock new scale opportunities.Partner closely with MarTech, analytics, and SEM teams, while being empowered to propose, test and iterate on new ideas.Work in a truly autonomous environment. The approach is grounded in trust and ownership - you’ll be given the space to lead your domain, backed by support and guidance when needed, but never micromanaged.What You’ll BringSolid technical foundation, especially in SQL, BigQuery, and data pipelines.A curious mindset with the ability to translate messy data into clean insight — ideally from a background in marketing analytics, Data Science or MarTech.Experience working in or with paid search/SEM — with a clear understanding of how bidding strategy connects to business outcomes and how data can be leveraged to drive bidding strategy at scal;e.Familiarity with Martech platforms and search advertising tools, and the ability to troubleshoot and optimise systems.Strong communication skills to translate complex data into clear insights and influence stakeholders.A proactive, curious mindset — ideally with exposure to Python/R or collaboration with ML teams.How to ApplyIf you're interested in this opportunity, apply on LinkedIn or send your CV to to arrange a conversation.You can also contact me at +44 7584 689959.Please note: Applicants must be based in the UK, Portugal or SpainI am on annual leave until the 30th of July and will tackle all applications on the Wednesday I return.

Created: 2025-07-26