Your Paid Media Leadership Search Starts Here
Whether you're ready to lead bold media strategies or seeking a results-driven executive to elevate your team, Method Recruiting connects agencies and professionals with the opportunities and talent that move the needle.
Job Responsibilities
In a performance-driven agency environment, the Vice President of Paid Media is the architect behind strategic media investment. In San Francisco’s data-centric and innovation-fueled market, this executive is responsible for:
Shaping omnichannel paid media strategies across platforms including Google, Meta, programmatic, and emerging digital channels.
Aligning campaign execution with client goals, revenue targets, and measurable KPIs.
Managing budgets across millions in ad spend, ensuring tactical precision and maximum ROI.
Innovating through testing frameworks, automation tools, and advanced targeting strategies.
Overseeing reporting processes and translating performance insights into strategic recommendations.
Recruiting, developing, and retaining top-tier media buyers, analysts, and strategists.
Collaborating across departments—from creative to analytics—to ensure integrated performance.
Monitoring industry trends and platform evolution to keep campaigns on the cutting edge.
Required Education and Certifications
While requirements vary by agency, San Francisco firms generally look for:
Education:
A bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Advertising, Data Science, or related field.
An MBA or master’s degree is a competitive advantage, especially for roles in larger, multi-channel agencies.
Certifications:
Hands-on certifications from platforms like Google Ads, Meta Blueprint, and programmatic DSPs (e.g., The Trade Desk, DV360) are highly valued.
Required Skills
The best candidates for a VP of Paid Media role in the Bay Area bring a blend of analytical, operational, and leadership strengths, including:
Mastery of digital advertising principles, with fluency across biddable media channels.
Proven ability to lead, inspire, and grow results-oriented media teams.
Deep experience managing seven-figure paid media budgets and delivering ROI.
Familiarity with campaign measurement models, such as MTA and MMM.
Strong storytelling and data visualization skills to communicate results with clarity and impact.
Forward-thinking mindset with the agility to adapt to constant platform updates and audience shifts.
Business acumen to tie campaign performance to agency revenue and client success.
FAQS
FAQS for a Career as a VP of Paid Media in San Francisco
In San Francisco, demand is high among growth marketing firms, integrated digital agencies, and brand-side media teams—especially those working with SaaS, e-commerce, fintech, and DTC businesses. Method Recruiting opens doors to opportunities that align with your leadership strengths and career trajectory.
FAQS
FAQs for Employers Looking to Hire a VP of Paid Media in San Francisco
Many agencies focus too narrowly on tactical expertise without evaluating leadership skills or strategic foresight. At Method Recruiting, our marketing recruiters help you assess for both—ensuring your VP can build a team and scale your client portfolio.
Find a VP of Paid Media (Agency) Role in San Francisco
You’re ready to lead. We’re ready to help.
San Francisco’s digital media landscape is fast-moving and high-stakes—and agencies here are looking for VPs who can make data-driven decisions, guide strategy, and deliver results that matter.
Whether you’re looking for your next leadership role or want to pivot to a new agency culture, Method Recruiting can connect you with companies that match your values, experience, and goals.
Hire a VP of Paid Media (Agency) in San Francisco
Paid media is a critical growth lever—and your agency needs a leader who can scale strategy, budget, and performance. From B2C e-commerce to B2B SaaS, today’s clients expect results fast. A skilled VP of Paid Media can help you deliver.
Method Recruiting specializes in connecting forward-thinking agencies with elite media leadership. Whether you're building your paid team from scratch or replacing a key executive, we’ll help you hire a VP who’s not just tactical, but transformational.