Programmatic Manager 

** Can be located in Buffalo, NY or Rochester, NY

About the Role

Our client is seeking a Programmatic Manager to lead the strategy, execution, and performance of programmatic advertising campaigns across a growing portfolio of clients. This is a senior, hands-on role requiring both deep technical expertise and strategic leadership. The Programmatic Manager will be responsible for planning, optimizing, and reporting on programmatic campaigns while mentoring team members and staying ahead of innovations in ad tech. The ideal candidate is data-driven, thrives in cross-functional environments, and is passionate about pushing the boundaries of programmatic media.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Planning & Execution

· Develop full-funnel programmatic strategies across display, video, native, and other channels aligned with client objectives.

· Translate client goals into effective campaign frameworks and tactics using the latest programmatic tools and platforms.

Campaign Management

· Oversee campaign setup, audience targeting, bidding strategies, pacing, and daily optimizations.

· Monitor budgets and ensure campaigns deliver on KPIs and remain within spend thresholds.

Performance Analysis & Optimization

· Review campaign performance regularly, surface insights, and implement data-driven optimizations to improve ROI.

· Define and track key performance indicators (KPIs) for each campaign.

Innovation & Testing

· Lead testing roadmaps, evaluate new DSP features, inventory types, audience segments, and creative formats.

· Pilot emerging tools and tactics to provide clients with a competitive edge.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

· Collaborate with internal teams (analytics, creative, development) and external partners (vendors, platforms) to ensure seamless execution and performance.

· Contribute to integrated media planning and cross-channel strategy.

Team Leadership & Development

· Mentor and support junior team members.

· Foster a collaborative and growth-oriented team culture that encourages continuous learning.

Market Intelligence

· Stay up to date on trends in programmatic media, ad tech, data privacy regulations, and inventory standards.

· Share key findings and updates with internal teams and clients.

What a Typical Day Might Include

· Optimizing live campaigns in a DSP.

· Adjusting bid strategies, frequency caps, or audience targeting.

· Meeting with clients for insights and quarterly business reviews.

· Collaborating with creative teams to align messaging with media performance.

· Leading internal syncs on testing priorities and timelines.

· Researching new tools, partners, or tactics to enhance campaigns.

Qualifications

· 3+ years of hands-on experience in programmatic advertising with strong knowledge of DSPs (e.g., The Trade Desk), ad servers, and performance reporting tools.

· Strong analytical skills with the ability to convert performance data into actionable insights.

· Proven ability to manage multiple campaigns and priorities.

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

· Experience managing or mentoring junior team members.

· Agency experience strongly preferred.

About Our Client

Our client is a full-service digital agency offering media strategy, software development, and creative services to deliver custom marketing solutions. They focus on collaboration, transparency, and real-time data to help brands grow and succeed.

Benefits & Perks

· Competitive salary and bonus opportunities

· Hybrid-friendly environment with flexible work options

· Comprehensive health benefits and 401(k) with match

· Generous PTO and paid holidays

· Professional development and certification opportunities

· Collaborative, ego-free team culture focused on results and relationships