At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and innovate our Paid Media strategy across various platforms.
- Company: Join an award-winning digital marketing agency committed to sustainability and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work, and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Shape the future of digital marketing while empowering your team and driving innovation.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in Paid Media with strong analytical and strategic skills.
- Other info: We value diversity and encourage applications from all backgrounds.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 £ per year.
Location: Top Floor, The Civic Centre, Castle Hill Avenue. We’re Sleeping Giant Media - an award-winning digital marketing agency on a mission to awaken potential in our clients, team and community and right now, we’re looking for a Head of Paid to join our growing team. As a B Corp and Real Living Wage employer, we balance profit with purpose. From our Folkestone HQ, we help brands grow through smart strategy, creativity and data-driven marketing, all while championing sustainability, inclusivity and continuous learning.
About The Role
- Department: Client Delivery - Paid Team
- Right to work: Must have the right to work in the UK. No visa sponsorship.
- No recruitment agencies: We are not seeking agencies for this role.
- Location: Folkestone, Kent/Hybrid - 3 days per week in-office.
- Duration: Permanent, Full Time, Monday to Friday 9am-5:30pm (37.5 hours weekly).
- Package: Starting from £50,000 - £70,000 DOE +Benefits.
The Role
We’re looking for an inspiring Head of Paid to lead, shape and elevate our Paid Media service, spanning Paid Search, Paid Social and emerging platforms. Working closely with the Director of Data & Performance, you’ll define the Paid Media vision and strategy, drive innovation (especially through AI and automation) and empower the team to deliver exceptional client results. This is a senior leadership role at the heart of the agency, blending strategy, people development and commercial growth.
Key Responsibilities
- Define and deliver the Paid Media vision, strategy and service roadmap.
- Lead innovation across Paid Search, Paid Social and emerging platforms.
- Oversee team performance, training and development — fostering accountability, collaboration and growth.
- Champion ethical and effective use of AI to drive smarter performance.
- Partner with senior leaders to ensure Paid Media integrates seamlessly with other channels.
- Support the Commercial team in pitches and growth opportunities.
- Drive delivery excellence through process, documentation and performance tracking.
- Represent Sleeping Giant Media externally as a Paid Media thought leader.
The Person
You’re a strategic, people-first leader with a passion for Paid Media innovation. You combine analytical thinking with creativity, thrive on collaboration and have the confidence to lead both the vision and delivery.
AI & Innovation
We’re committed to embracing innovation and evolving with the digital landscape and that includes the smart use of AI. We see AI as a tool to enhance our work, not replace it. Whether it’s streamlining processes, uncovering insights, or supporting creativity, we’re always exploring how AI can help us deliver smarter, more effective results for our clients. You’ll lead our responsible use of AI, exploring how technology can unlock creativity, efficiency and better performance. You don’t need to be an AI expert to work here – just open-minded, curious and willing to experiment. We’ll support you with tools, training and opportunities to learn, so you can confidently engage with AI in a way that enhances your work and adds value to your role. If you’re excited about the future of digital and want to be part of a team that uses technology with purpose and responsibility, you’ll feel right at home.
Other Information
We are passionate about fostering a workplace where everyone can be their authentic selves and feel supported to thrive. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented backgrounds, people with disabilities and individuals of all faiths or beliefs. Please note that applicants must have the right to work in the UK, as we are unable to provide visa sponsorship. We do not ask about criminal convictions during our recruitment process. We believe in fair access to employment for everyone. We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. If you need reasonable adjustments or specific support during the recruitment process, or once in the role, we’ll do everything we can to accommodate your needs. Our interview process will involve getting in touch with you over email – never WhatsApp. And we will never ask for any payment or payment information from you. If in doubt, just get in touch! If you’re not sure you’re 100% qualified but are excited about the role, apply anyway. We value potential and passion just as much as experience. If you need to discuss any adjustments, get in touch at jobs@sleepinggiantmedia.co.uk.
Skills Needed
At Sleeping Giant Media, we look for people with curiosity, energy and a genuine desire to grow, both personally and professionally. Whether you’re just starting out or bringing years of experience, we want people who are switched on, motivated and kind. Above all, you’ll need to wear CAPES, our values that guide how we work and who we hire: Communicator. Accountable. Positive. Effective. Self‑Aware. This is a place for people who want to challenge themselves, learn continuously, support their teammates and make a positive impact, in and out of the office.
Required Criteria
- Proven senior leadership experience in Paid Media within an agency environment.
- Expertise across Google Ads, Meta, Microsoft Ads, LinkedIn Ads and other major platforms.
- Strong commercial and analytical acumen — able to turn insight into action.
- Strategic mindset with hands-on understanding of performance delivery.
- Excellent communicator, confident with clients and internal teams.
- Deep understanding of attribution, conversion optimisation and audience strategy.
- Passion for developing teams and driving innovation.
Desired Criteria
- Experience with GA4, Looker Studio or similar analytics tools.
- Leading or supporting AI adoption in marketing.
- Awareness of evolving social platform trends and ad technologies.
- Informal or formal qualifications preferred, but not necessary.
Closing Date: Friday 12th December, 2025
Salary: Starting from £50,000.00 Yearly
Head of Paid | Folkestone, Kent | Full-Time | Permanent employer: Sleeping Giant Media
Contact Detail:
Sleeping Giant Media Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Paid | Folkestone, Kent | Full-Time | Permanent
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections on LinkedIn or attend local meetups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values and how they align with yours. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly fits in.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Head of Paid role. Highlight your experience, passion for innovation, and how you can contribute to the team’s success.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about joining our mission at Sleeping Giant Media.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Paid | Folkestone, Kent | Full-Time | Permanent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Paid Media: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for Paid Media shine through! Share specific examples of how you've driven innovation and results in previous roles. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about the field.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the key responsibilities and skills mentioned in the job description. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant achievements that align with our mission at Sleeping Giant Media.
Be Authentic: We value authenticity, so don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your application. Share your unique perspective on how you can contribute to our team and culture. Remember, we’re looking for people who are kind and motivated!
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. This helps us keep track of applications and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy and straightforward!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sleeping Giant Media
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the world of Paid Media. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in Google Ads, Meta, and emerging platforms. Being able to discuss recent innovations or case studies will show your passion and expertise.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Head of Paid, you'll be leading a team. Be ready to share examples of how you've developed teams in the past. Talk about your approach to fostering collaboration and accountability, and how you empower others to achieve their best.
✨Embrace AI and Innovation
Sleeping Giant Media values innovation through AI. Prepare to discuss how you've used AI in your previous roles or how you envision it enhancing Paid Media strategies. Show that you're open-minded and curious about experimenting with new technologies.
✨Be Authentic and Inclusive
The company is all about authenticity and inclusivity. During the interview, let your true self shine through. Share your values and how they align with the company's mission. This will help you connect on a personal level with the interviewers.