Director of Paid Search Recruiter | eCommerce Paid Search Leadership

What We Place

What Does a Director of Paid Search Do in eCommerce?

The Director of Paid Search leads the strategy, team, and execution of paid search across Google, Bing, and shopping channels, accountable for driving customer acquisition at scale while hitting ROAS, CAC, and revenue targets.

In eCommerce, the Director of Paid Search owns one of the largest and most performance-accountable marketing channels. They lead a team of paid search managers, set channel strategy, manage agency relationships if applicable, and work cross-functionally with eCommerce, CRO, and merchandising. They report to a VP of Marketing, VP of eCommerce, or CMO.

Core Responsibilities

Own paid search strategy and performance across Google Shopping, Performance Max, and search
Lead and develop a team of paid search managers and analysts
Set ROAS, CAC, and revenue targets and hold the team accountable to them
Manage significant paid search budgets and allocate across channels and campaigns
Oversee Google Merchant Center feed quality and product data strategy
Build cross-functional relationships with eCommerce, CRO, SEO, and merchandising
Manage agency or vendor relationships where applicable
Present paid search performance and strategy to VP and C-suite stakeholders

Why eCommerce Placement

Why Use a Specialized eCommerce Paid Search Recruiter?

Unlike generalist recruiters, every search we run is focused exclusively on digital commerce talent. We know the roles, the platforms, and the people.

eCommerce Channel Depth

We understand the difference between a strong digital marketing Director and a true eCommerce paid search leader. Our network reflects that distinction.

Strategy and Execution Balance

Director hires need both strategic vision and hands-on credibility. We screen for both.

Leadership Track Record

We evaluate candidates on their ability to build and lead high-performing paid search teams, not just run campaigns.

No Placement, No Fee

Contingency model. You only pay when we successfully fill the role.

Compensation Benchmarks

Director of Paid Search Salary Ranges

Compensation varies by company size, scope, and geography. These ranges reflect current US market conditions across our placement history.

Director of Paid Search — Base Salary Benchmarks (US)

$120K-$155K

Mid-Market Brand
($50M-$250M revenue)

$155K-$195K

Large Brand / Major Agency
($250M-$1B revenue)

$195K-$230K+

Enterprise Brand
($1B+ revenue)

* Base salary only. Total compensation may include annual bonus and equity. Contact us for current benchmarks specific to your sector.

Candidate Profiles

What We Look For in a Director of Paid Search

Strong Directors of Paid Search have scaled eCommerce acquisition programs and led teams that drive measurable business results. They are equally comfortable in a budget spreadsheet and a leadership conversation.

Must-Have Qualifications

6+ years in paid search with 2+ years in a management or director-level role
Proven track record managing large paid search budgets ($5M+ annually) in eCommerce
Deep Google Shopping and Performance Max expertise
Experience leading and developing a team of paid search specialists
Strong analytical skills and comfort with attribution, incrementality, and LTV-based bidding
Cross-functional collaboration experience with eCommerce, CRO, and brand teams
Ability to present channel performance and strategy to senior leadership
Experience in DTC, retail, or marketplace eCommerce (relevant vertical preferred)

Client Feedback

What Hiring Companies Say

eCommerce Placement's work quality distinguishes them from other providers. They helped us hire four candidates within four months and excelled at listening to our needs.

VP of Human Resources

National Retail Brand

They helped us find and place multiple eCommerce team members who became some of our best hires. They scoped our roles well and consistently presented the right level of candidate.

Chief Marketing Officer

DTC Consumer Brand

Unlike generalist recruiters, their team understood exactly what our eCommerce business needed. Every candidate they sent could do the job on day one.

CEO

Mid-Market Online Retailer

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Should a Director of Paid Search also manage paid social?

It depends on the org structure. Some companies want a single Director of Performance Marketing covering both paid search and paid social. Others keep them separate. We will scope the role with you and find candidates who match the remit you need.

How long does a Director of Paid Search search take?

Most Director-level searches take 5-8 weeks. Paid search directors with strong eCommerce track records are in high demand.

Do you place Directors of Paid Search at agencies as well as brands?

Yes. We place paid search directors at both brand-side companies and at eCommerce-focused digital agencies. Agency experience is often highly valued by brand-side employers.

What is your fee structure?

We work on a contingency basis. No placement, no fee. New clients receive a 10% discount on their first placement.

Can you find candidates with specific vertical experience?

Yes. We will prioritize candidates with experience in your specific vertical, whether that is apparel, home goods, CPG, beauty, sporting goods, or another category.

Hire a Director of Paid Search Who Scales Your eCommerce Acquisition Engine