Barkley

Director, SEO & AI Optimization

Remote

Not SpecifiedCompensation
Expert & Leadership (9+ years)Experience Level
Full TimeJob Type
UnknownVisa
Marketing, Advertising, BiotechnologyIndustries

Requirements

Candidates must possess a BS/BA degree in marketing, advertising, or business, with a minimum of 8 years of experience leading Organic Search and Content Marketing strategy. A proven track record of at least 5 years in unsupervised, client-facing roles and 4 years in people management and training is required. Expertise in technical SEO across various CMSs, data consoles, and a working knowledge of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript are essential. Proficiency with SEO tools such as SEMrush, Google Search Console, Ahrefs, GA4, and Screaming Frog is necessary. The ideal candidate will be a confident communicator, capable of simplifying complex technical concepts for senior management and non-technical personnel, and possess a strong understanding of AI algorithms and their impact on brand performance.

Responsibilities

The Director of SEO & AI Optimization will be responsible for enhancing brand performance on traditional and generative search engines, including AI platforms. This involves leading testing, adoption, and training of AI tools for process optimization and performance tracking. The role requires researching and publishing point-of-view articles, building out the New York office, managing and training junior team members, and leading client relationships for 4-5 brands. Responsibilities include leading client calls, preparing reports, conducting Quarterly Business Reviews, identifying upsell opportunities, and assisting with new business pitches. The director will collaborate cross-functionally with senior leaders, build frameworks for the SEO & AI team, define strategic SEO growth opportunities, and communicate with client stakeholders up to the C-level. They will oversee SEO, Content, and AI client work, collaborate with product and development teams on technical SEO initiatives, and communicate client roadblocks to leadership. The role also involves securing client renewals and increasing investments through project proposals, evolving services by leveraging AI tools and data insights, researching and testing new AI-powered solutions, and initiating new service offerings, particularly within AI search platforms. Additionally, the director will foster a culture of teamwork and collaboration, lead and motivate internal teams, and lead training programs for junior team members and cross-team educational initiatives.

Skills

SEO
AI Optimization
Generative Search Engines
Technical SEO
Content Ideation
Content Optimization
Content Production
AI Tools
Vibe Coding
Process Optimization
Performance Tracking
Client Management
Reporting
Business Development
Cross-functional Collaboration
Website Redesign
Website Migration

Barkley

Full-service marketing and advertising agency

About Barkley

Barkley is a marketing and advertising agency focused on creating modern brands that appeal to today's consumers. The agency works across various sectors, including consumer goods, finance, healthcare, non-profit, restaurant, retail, and travel, serving clients from large corporations to retail and hospitality brands. Barkley offers a wide range of marketing solutions, including advertising, communication, product innovation, media strategy, and talent management. By utilizing deep consumer insights, they develop campaigns that resonate with audiences and keep brands relevant. Their services include experience design, digital platform optimization, influencer activations, and creative campaign development, allowing them to support clients in achieving their business goals, whether launching new products or enhancing consumer engagement. Barkley's unique combination of creativity and data-driven insights sets them apart from competitors, ensuring they stay ahead of market trends.

Kansas City, MissouriHeadquarters
1964Year Founded
$5.1MTotal Funding
MERGERCompany Stage
Consulting, Consumer Software, Consumer GoodsIndustries
501-1,000Employees

Benefits

Health Insurance
Life Insurance
Unlimited Paid Time Off
401(k) Retirement Plan

Risks

Rapid acquisitions may lead to integration challenges and cultural clashes within Barkley.
The merger with OKRP could result in operational inefficiencies and client conflicts.
Investment from a Chicago firm may lead to strategic shifts disrupting current operations.

Differentiation

Barkley is one of the largest independent, employee-owned advertising agencies in the U.S.
The agency combines creativity with data-driven insights for modern consumer engagement.
Barkley's integrated marketing approach spans multiple industries, ensuring brand relevance.

Upsides

Barkley's acquisition of Adlucent enhances its performance media and MarTech capabilities.
The merger with OKRP creates one of the largest independent marketing firms in the U.S.
Barkley's focus on ESG aligns with growing consumer demand for sustainable brands.

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