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Director, SEO

Walker Sands

Chicago, IL
Full Time
Director
100k-105k
20 days ago

Job Description

About the Role

Walker Sands is seeking a Director, SEO to lead and evolve our SEO and GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) capabilities. This role is responsible for driving strategic outcomes for a portfolio of medium to large clients while elevating the agency's broader digital marketing performance. The ideal candidate is a seasoned leader with a strong track record of success in SEO, content strategy, and integrated marketing who thrives on translating complex search challenges into actionable, revenue-driving solutions.

Key Responsibilities

  • Serve as the strategic lead on SEO and GEO initiatives across key client accounts, setting vision, frameworks, and success metrics that align with business goals.
  • Lead high-level client conversations with CMOs, VPs, and senior stakeholders, effectively articulating the role of SEO in broader marketing ecosystems.
  • Own and evolve the agency's approach to GEO and AI-influenced search trends, identifying opportunities to innovate and differentiate.
  • Collaborate with senior leaders across departments to integrate SEO into broader marketing programs (paid, content, PR, demand gen, analytics).
  • Oversee the development and execution of sophisticated SEO/GEO strategies including technical audits, content gap analysis, competitive assessments, and performance tracking.
  • Guide the team in using data to craft compelling narratives and insight-driven recommendations that influence executive-level client decision-making.
  • Manage and mentor a growing team of SEO strategists, senior specialists, and interns, fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and continuous learning.
  • Develop career growth plans and support skill development through coaching, feedback, and training initiatives.
  • Champion operational improvements to enhance workflow efficiencies, team bandwidth, and cross-functional collaboration.
  • Stay ahead of SEO and AI-driven search trends to inform internal education, service line evolution, and client advisories.

Requirements

  • 5-7+ years of full-time SEO experience, including client-facing roles within an agency or consulting environment.
  • Proven success managing SEO programs for mid-market to enterprise-level clients.
  • Experience leading and developing high-performing teams, with a track record of driving measurable business impact.
  • Deep expertise in SEO and GEO best practices, tools, and analytics platforms (e.g., Google Analytics, Google Search Console, SEMrush, Screaming Frog, generative AI tools, etc.).
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to simplify complex concepts for executive audiences.
  • Adept at managing multiple client engagements simultaneously, with strong project management and prioritization skills.
  • Experience working within and across project management tools and systems (e.g., Asana, Monday.com, Jira).
  • Google Analytics Certification preferred.

Nice to Have

  • A visionary approach to how SEO is evolving in the age of AI, automation, and generative content.
  • A collaborative and influential leadership style that uplifts others while pushing for performance.
  • A growth mindset rooted in experimentation, learning, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

  • Relevant qualifications include 5-7+ years of full-time SEO experience, including client-facing roles within an agency or consulting environment.
  • Google Analytics Certification is preferred.

Benefits & Perks

  • Competitive salary range of $100,000 - $104,500 annually, with potential bonuses based on company performance.
  • Comprehensive health coverage including medical, dental, and vision plans, mental health resources, pet insurance, fertility benefits, and more.
  • Employer-matched 401(k) and access to financial planning services.
  • Flexible PTO including 8 paid holidays, half-day summer Fridays, and a week off between Christmas and New Year.
  • Hybrid work environment with a mix of in-office and remote work.
  • Milestone sabbatical: two-week leave and a $2,000 gift after five years.
  • Generous paid leave for new parents and caregivers, plus policies for pregnancy loss, adoption challenges, and more.
  • Opportunities for professional growth through mentorship programs and learning events.

Working at Walker Sands

Our agency values a supportive, collaborative culture where we work hard to achieve the best outcomes for clients. We emphasize diversity, equity, and inclusion, welcoming everyone to our team and encouraging transparency and growth.

Apply Now

Job Details

Posted AtJul 24, 2025
Job CategorySEO
Salary100k-105k
Job TypeFull Time
Work ModeRemote
ExperienceDirector

Job Skills

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About Walker Sands

Website

walkersands.com

Location

Chicago, IL

Industry

Marketing Consulting Services

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