About the Position

SEO Specialist

Chicago, Illinois, United States; Dallas, Texas, United States; Detroit, Michigan, United States; Kansas City, Missouri, United States; Memphis, Tennessee, United States

About the Company

VML is a global creative company that combines brand experience, customer experience, and commerce to create connected brands that drive growth. Guided by a Human First philosophy, VML is known for its innovative work for brands and consistently ranks among the world’s leading creative companies, including the WARC Creative 100. VML’s global network spans 55+ markets with principal offices in Buenos Aires, Kansas City, London, New York, São Paulo, Shanghai, and Singapore.

VML is part of WPP, the trusted growth partner for the world's leading brands. Powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform WPP Open, WPP unites cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, creativity, production, enterprise solutions, and expert strategic counsel.

For more information, please visit www.vml.com and follow along on LinkedIn #WeAreVML.

Responsibilities

Provide strategic recommendations for improving organic search performance on websites in various stages of development.
Conduct comprehensive keyword research using leading industry tools to identify opportunities for optimization.
Analyze and optimize on-page SEO elements such as titles, meta descriptions, copy, images, and internal links.
Conduct thorough site audits and competitive analyses to uncover opportunities for growth.
Create and deliver monthly organic search performance reports with actionable insights.
Evaluate and present organic search findings and recommendations to clients and stakeholders.
Provide Organic Search recommendations for non-website digital assets like videos, social media profiles, and others.
Produce thought leadership pieces like POVs and industry news round-ups.
Guide junior team members as necessary.
Document client history, processes, contact information, major initiatives, past recommendations and projects, and site changes.
Work with account teams and clients to understand and document business, technical, and reporting requirements, and to develop solutions to ensure success.
Help clients expand their knowledge and use of search engine optimization and drive internal buy-in.
Provide guidance to the agency, client, and other partners on the implementation and use of white hat Organic Search strategies.
Provide effective and persuasive presentations (both verbal and written) to internal teams and clients.
Stay current on the constantly changing search, AI, and technology industry and inform clients about new industry developments that impact them.
Collaborate across departments to ensure appropriate inclusion at the correct times in the process for client work.
Navigate multiple dependencies on technology, content creators, and other connections to ensure the effectiveness of SEO efforts.
Ensure the delivery of cutting-edge, high-quality SEO work tailored to each client's unique needs.
Develop case studies based on past work to support new business initiatives and validate client relationships.
Attend meetings with other company functions necessary to perform duties and organizational development.

Requirements

Hard Skills

Strong writing and communication skills.
3-5 years of experience
Proficiency in search engine optimization techniques and strategies.
Knowledge of AI platforms, optimization techniques, and strategies.
Proficiency with common organic search tools (e.g., SEMrush, Moz Analytics, BrightEdge, SearchMetrics, etc.).
Ability to conduct research and analyze data effectively.
Knowledge of web analytics tools (e.g., Adobe Analytics, Google Search Console).
Familiarity with basic HTML and Excel.
Proficiency in presentation tools like Keynote or PowerPoint.
Comfortable with AI platforms like ChatGPT and leveraging automation tools.
Comfortable with public speaking and giving presentations.
Ability to create Organic Search Performance reporting and analyze data analytics.

Soft Skills

Receptiveness to feedback and a willingness to learn continuously.
Resourcefulness and self-awareness to navigate challenges independently.
Ability to balance competing demands and prioritize tasks effectively.
Strong collaboration skills to work seamlessly across teams and departments.
Self-awareness and ability to think critically, prioritize, and assess what is best for the client.
Embodies executive presence, ability to problem-solve, and be adaptable.
Thinks strategically to better understand the business and be detail-oriented to deliver best-in-class work.

Preferred Skills

Familiarity with technical SEO, including site architecture, crawlability, and indexing.
Knowledge of advanced web analytics and reporting techniques.
Experience or familiarity with the automotive and financial industry is a plus.

We Offer

Competitive Salary: $60,000-$140,000 USD
Hybrid Work Environment: Teams in the office an average of four days a week.
Comprehensive Benefits Package: Click WPP Benefits for more details.
Equal Opportunity Employer: VML is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to characteristics.

About VML

We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we’ve adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office an average of four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.

WPP (VML) is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.

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SEO Specialist

Job description