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- Tasks: Lead data optimisation for a major SEM programme in travel tech.
- Company: Join a global leader in online travel experiences, focused on innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy remote work flexibility, competitive salary, and annual bonuses.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of data-driven marketing in a supportive, autonomous culture.
- Qualifications: Strong SQL skills, experience in SEM, and a curious mindset are essential.
- Other info: Applicants must be based in the UK, Portugal, or Spain.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 105000 £ per year.
SEM Data Optimisation Manager
Remote-first but office available (UK preferred) | ~£75,000 base + annual bonus
We’re partnering exclusively with a global leader in online travel experiences to find their next Paid Search Data Technology Manager — a rare opportunity for someone working at the intersection of performance marketing, martech, data engineering and data science .
This remote-first role sits at the heart of a high-impact SEM function, where technical innovation and data-led strategy are critical to growth. You won’t just support campaigns — you’ll help engineer the systems and signals that drive one of the largest paid search programmes in the travel space.
Why This Role Matters
In today’s performance landscape, paid search is driven as much by intelligent data usage as it is by creative strategy. This role is central to powering sophisticated bidding systems using first-party data, advanced modelling, and automation.
You’ll report directly to a senior leader with a strong technical and commercial background, in a culture that prioritizes ownership over micromanagement and impact over process .
What You’ll Do
- Own the data layer for one of the largest SEM programmes in travel tech, helping to build custom signals that power smarter bidding strategies.
- Own and optimise data integrations between internal systems and platforms like Google Ads, SA360, and BigQuery.
- Monitor and troubleshoot pipeline operations to ensure seamless signal flow into bidding systems.
- Collaborate with data science and engineering teams to enhance SEM targeting through better data use and modelling.
- Document workflows, drive automation, and proactively introduce new technologies and tools.
- Lead key innovation projects. Past projects have involved:
- Developing lifetime value models based on booking and customer data and integrating them into bidding algorithms.
- Trialling non-booking behavioural signals (like product availability views) to improve campaign efficiency.
- Experimenting with first-party data integrations and custom audiences to unlock new scale opportunities.
- Partner closely with MarTech, analytics, and SEM teams, while being empowered to propose, test and iterate on new ideas.
- Work in a truly autonomous environment. The approach is grounded in trust and ownership – you’ll be given the space to lead your domain, backed by support and guidance when needed, but never micromanaged.
What You’ll Bring
- Solid technical foundation, especially in SQL , BigQuery , and data pipelines .
- A curious mindset with the ability to translate messy data into clean insight — ideally from a background in marketing analytics , Data Science or MarTech .
- Experience working in or with paid search/SEM — with a clear understanding of how bidding strategy connects to business outcomes and how data can be leveraged to drive bidding strategy at scal;e.
- Familiarity with Martech platforms and search advertising tools , and the ability to troubleshoot and optimise systems.
- Strong communication skills to translate complex data into clear insights and influence stakeholders.
- A proactive, curious mindset — ideally with exposure to Python/R or collaboration with ML teams.
How to Apply
If you\’re interested in this opportunity, apply on LinkedIn or send your CV to to arrange a conversation.
You can also contact me at +44 7584 689959 .
Please note: Applicants must be based in the UK, Portugal or Spain
I am on annual leave until the 30th of July and will tackle all applications on the Wednesday I return.
More opportunities: Visit our job board
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SEM Data Optimisation Manager employer: Pivotal London
Contact Detail:
Pivotal London Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEM Data Optimisation Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in SEM and data optimisation. Understanding how data-driven strategies are evolving in the travel industry will help you speak confidently about your insights during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the SEM and MarTech space. Engaging with others in the field can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals, which can significantly boost your chances of landing the job.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your technical skills by working on personal projects or contributing to open-source initiatives related to data pipelines or SEM tools. This hands-on experience can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've used data to drive business outcomes in previous roles. Being able to articulate your impact clearly will resonate well with the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace SEM Data Optimisation Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the SEM Data Optimisation Manager position. Familiarise yourself with key terms like data pipelines, SQL, and bidding strategies to tailor your application effectively.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant experience in performance marketing, data engineering, and analytics in your CV. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to optimise data integrations and enhance SEM targeting, as these are crucial for this role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for data-driven marketing and your technical skills. Mention any past projects that align with the job description, such as developing lifetime value models or experimenting with first-party data integrations.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since strong communication skills are essential for this role, ensure your application reflects your ability to translate complex data into clear insights. Consider including examples of how you've influenced stakeholders in previous roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Pivotal London
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Make sure to highlight your experience with SQL, BigQuery, and data pipelines during the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you successfully used these skills to optimise data for SEM campaigns.
✨Demonstrate Your Data-Driven Mindset
Prepare examples of how you've translated complex data into actionable insights in previous roles. This will show your ability to leverage data effectively, which is crucial for this position.
✨Understand the Bidding Strategy
Familiarise yourself with how bidding strategies connect to business outcomes. Be ready to discuss how data can drive these strategies at scale, as this knowledge is key for the role.
✨Communicate Clearly
Strong communication skills are essential. Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms, as you'll need to influence stakeholders and collaborate with various teams.
