Associate Director, Programmatic

We are seeking an accomplished Associate Director – Programmatic to lead strategic planning, performance oversight, and innovation across our programmatic practice. This role demands a deep understanding of programmatic ecosystems, strong leadership abilities, and the capability to translate data into actionable business outcomes.

Responsibilities

Own end-to-end programmatic strategy and delivery across key client accounts; Lead campaign architecture, data onboarding, experimentation frameworks, and advanced optimizations; Drive performance accountability — pacing, KPI alignment, measurement plans, and actionable insights; Partner with Planning, Analytics, Creative, and Tech teams to deliver full-funnel programmatic success; Shape audience strategy, reporting intelligence, and programmatic innovation for clients; Influence platform selection, deal negotiation, and ad-tech partnerships to drive value; Evangelize programmatic best practices internally and externally; Identify automation, workflow enhancements, and scalability opportunities for the team; Represent programmatic expertise in client conversations, pitching, and business development; Coach and grow a team of programmatic traders/managers to elevate craft excellence within GALE; As an Associate Director, expected to lead with strategic vision, act as a senior consultative partner to clients, and be a key driver in expanding GALE’s programmatic footprint

Requirements

10+ years of progressive experience in programmatic strategy, planning, and campaign management; Deep expertise in programmatic buying models (RTB, PMP, PG), advanced optimization tactics, audience strategies, and KPI frameworks; Hands-on proficiency across major DSPs such as DV360, The Trade Desk, and Amazon DSP; Experience working with other biddable platforms will be valuable; Strong understanding of Display, Native, Video, YouTube, CTV, Audio and DOOH advertising channels with knowledge of all major ad formats; Solid experience with ad verification/brand safety platforms (IAS, DoubleVerify, MOAT); Strong technical competency with tags, pixels, tracking, macros, and troubleshooting; Proven experience setting up and managing PMP and PG deals across platforms; Familiarity with analytics tools such as GA4, Adobe Analytics, and MMPs (AppsFlyer, Kochava, Adjust), etc.; Curiosity-driven innovator who stays up-to-date with emerging channels (retail media, streaming platforms, identity solutions) with an ability to evaluate and recommend new ad-tech partners, test new betas, and lead innovation roadmaps; Excellent analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret data and drive strategic decisions; A proactive leader with the ability to set objectives, manage multiple workstreams, and ensure accountability; Strong communicator capable of influencing internal teams, clients, and cross-functional stakeholders; Experience mentoring and upskilling teams; passionate about building high-performing programmatic talent; Passionate about craft mastery, and an advocate for collaboration in a no-silos culture

Nice to have

Experience working with other biddable platforms will be valuable