Whalar is the leading, most awarded, independent Creator and Social agency. We transform brands into cultural drivers by unlocking the full creative power of Creators. We go beyond the conventional social and influencer strategy. We have the technology and methodology to tap into the beating pulse of communities, listen to nuances that move culture, and connect brands in ways that make them unforgettable. With hubs in London, Berlin, New York, and Los Angeles, our reach is global.
About the role:
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Associate Director, Paid Media to lead our paid social strategies, driving innovation and excellence across multiple platforms. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in managing high-profile client relationships, strategic media planning, and advanced campaign optimization. This role requires a forward-thinking leader who is adept at leveraging data-driven insights to maximize ROI and stay ahead of industry trends.
Here’s what you’ll do day to day:
- Lead on the creation and communication of comprehensive paid social media strategies to both internal teams and external clients, ensuring alignment with overarching business goals.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for clients for all paid media inquiries, demonstrating exceptional experience in managing client relationships and effectively addressing their needs.
- Collaborate closely with commercial leaders and senior management in responding to complex briefs and driving strategic initiatives forward.
- Oversee and refine paid amplification and targeting strategies across a variety of platforms, ensuring the use of the most effective ad products, targeting methods, and pricing models.
- Lead the implementation of advanced creator integrations, listing, leveraging the latest platform features to enhance campaign performance on META, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, LinkedIn.
- Strategically configure and optimize paid social campaigns, with the ability to manage and adjust budgets in real-time to maximize ROI.
- Maintain exceptional attention to detail while managing multiple campaigns across various categories and creative objectives, ensuring seamless execution and performance tracking.
- Utilize strong analytical skills to interpret large data sets, extracting meaningful insights to inform strategic decisions and optimize campaign outcomes
- Stay at the forefront of paid social media developments, regularly presenting insights and trends to teams and incorporating these into strategic planning.
Here’s what we’re looking for:
- 8+ years in paid social media roles, with a proven track record in leading and executing successful campaigns within agencies, brands, or platforms.
- In-depth knowledge and experience with major paid social tools and interfaces, including MetaBusiness Manager, TikTok Ads Manager,, and LinkedIn CampaignManager, Snapchat Ads Manager, etc.
- Strong understanding of tracking pixels, UTM parameters, and advanced ad implementation techniques.
- Demonstrated experience in strategic media planning and the ability to align campaigns with broader business objectives.
- Comprehensive knowledge of social media platforms, including best practices for creative ad execution and platform-specific dynamics.
- Advanced proficiency in Google Sheets, with the ability to analyze complex data sets, utilize formulas, and create pivot tables to drive campaign performance.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex strategies and insights to a variety of stakeholders.
- Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment, demonstrating flexibility and strong problem-solving skills.
- Thorough understanding of branded content ad policies and compliance requirements.
Fluency in German at a native or near-native level (verbal and written) is required for this role.
Our values:
At Whalar Group, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) isn't just a statement, it's our collective strength. Our people are our superpower. A diverse team and inclusive leadership have shaped Whalar Group since our inception in 2016, fueling a constant evolution of growth. We champion a culture of respect and empathy, fostering a sense of belonging that transcends demographics. We hire individuals of all backgrounds and empower them to thrive, challenge stereotypes, and actively break societal barriers. Learn more.
Our benefits and perks:
Whalar Group provides flexible benefits and collaborative work environments and experiences so employees can work productively in a setting that best and uniquely suits their needs.
- 25 days of PTO + winter break
- Monthly phone/internet reimbursement
- Professional development stipend
- New joiner home office allowance
- Volunteer days
- Social programs
Whalar provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Equal opportunity extends to all aspects of the employment relationship, including hiring, promotions, training, working conditions, compensation, and benefits.