Director of SEO & AI Optimization

MissionOne Media & BarkleyOKRP is seeking an experienced Director of SEO & AI Optimization to enhance brand performance across traditional search engines and emerging Generative Search Engines.

Position Overview

This role requires deep technical SEO engineering knowledge, expertise in content ideation, optimization, and production, and a strong passion for Artificial Intelligence. The Director will lead the testing, adoption, and training of AI tools for various applications including vibe coding, process optimization, and performance tracking. You will also be responsible for researching, writing, and publishing point-of-view articles on relevant topics.

This position will contribute to building out our New York office, managing and training junior team members, and overseeing 4-5 client accounts. Responsibilities include leading client calls, preparing weekly, monthly, and quarterly reports, conducting Quarterly Business Reviews, identifying upsell opportunities, and assisting with new business pitches.

We are looking for a fearless, self-starter who excels in client relations and teamwork. A positive attitude, a good sense of humor, and a strong work ethic are essential.

Responsibilities

Client Delivery

• Collaborate cross-functionally with senior leaders in Performance, CRM, Strategy, and other departments to achieve client goals.
• Develop frameworks and innovative processes for the SEO & AI team to streamline daily client work, onboarding, and retention.
• Identify strategic SEO growth opportunities across clients and BOKRP proprietary solutions, encompassing all search engines, AI, and LLMs.
• Communicate effectively with client stakeholders, including C-level executives, during status updates and to build strong client relationships.
• Oversee SEO, Content, and AI client work, as well as GEO strategy for 4-5 brands.
• Partner with product and development teams to implement technical SEO initiatives, including website redesigns, migrations, and new site development.
• Proactively communicate client roadblocks and challenges to leadership for timely resolution and risk mitigation.
• Secure client renewals and increase investments by developing innovative, conversion-driven project proposals for existing and new initiatives.
• Assist with new business pitches as needed.
• Possess hands-on experience with various CMS platforms (e.g., WordPress) and the ability to implement changes directly on client websites.

AI Innovation

• Continuously evolve strategies by leveraging AI tools, in-depth data insights, user research, and competitive intelligence to deliver impactful solutions quickly and at scale.
• Research and test new AI-powered solutions to enhance team processes and develop cutting-edge service offerings.
• Initiate and launch new service offerings or products, particularly within AI search platforms and the evolving organic search landscape.

Team Leadership

• Foster a culture of teamwork, collaboration, intellectual curiosity, and mutual respect.
• Lead and motivate internal teams to work collaboratively towards increasing client performance and achieving business objectives.
• Develop and deliver training programs for junior team members and conduct cross-team educational initiatives.

Qualifications

• BS/BA degree in marketing, advertising, or business preferred.
• 8+ years of experience leading Organic Search and Content Marketing strategy for brands.
• 5+ years of direct client-facing or agency experience without supervision.
• 4+ years in people management and training.
• Proven technical SEO experience across various CMSs and data consoles, with working knowledge of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
• Expertise in SEO and content marketing tools such as SEMrush, Google Search Console, Ahrefs, GA4, Screaming Frog, etc.
• Confident communicator capable of simplifying complex technical concepts for senior management and non-technical audiences.
• Understanding of AI algorithms and their impact on brand performance.