SEO Manager job description

This page details key information about the SEO Marketing Manager job title. Keep reading to learn the core responsibilities, salary information and how to approach recruitment.

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What does an SEO Manager do?

A Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) Manager is responsible for organically driving a brand's online presence.

Part of the digital marketing team, they play a key role in ensuring a company can be found online. They create targeted keyword, SEO and GEO (Generative Engine Optimisation) strategies that help brands reach their target audiences on search engines.

Key responsibilities

Although the job description will change based on industry and business objectives, the main responsibilities include:

  • Create the SEO strategy: Develop and implement the organic search strategy across search engines, AI and social media platforms. Collaborate with the wider marketing and communications team to ensure a cohesive marketing strategy that supports business objectives.
  • Monitor trends and changes: Stay updated with the latest changes in search engine and AI algorithms, adapting strategies accordingly.
  • Keyword and competitor research: Use SEO tools to conduct keyword research, monitor competitors and identify content gaps.
  • Technical SEO: Work with the user experience and website teams to improve technical foundations of the website.
  • Content creation: Work closely with internal and external Copywriters and Content Managers to create high-quality website content.
  • Increase brand awareness: Identify PR opportunities to increase brand awareness and secure backlinks.
  • Reporting on performance: Run monthly reports on the success of SEO campaigns. The SEO Marketing Manager will use this data to communicate with key stakeholders and adjust SEO/GEO campaigns.
  • Manage agency relationships: Collaborate with third-party agencies to achieve goals. This can include content, website, performance marketing and SEO agencies.


Skills and requirements

When hiring an SEO Manager, you should look for the following experiences and skill sets:

  • Experience working in an SEO, content, or communications role, with a strong understanding of content marketing
  • Proven experience executing and leading strategies for search engine optimisation
  • Passionate about SEO and GEO, staying up to date with the evolving world of organic search
  • Hands-on experience with CMS and SEO tools, such as WordPress, SEMRush or Ahrefs
  • Experience pitching stories to journalists
  • The ability to analyse large amounts of data to make informed decisions
  • Great time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects
  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work across teams

What is an SEO Manager's salary?

The average salary for a permanent Search Engine Optimisation Manager is £50,000 - £70,000. For a contractor, you can expect to pay a day rate of £250 - £350.

Pay ranges vary depending on business size, industry and location. To learn more, download our salary guide below.

Salary guides
Bar chart comparing SEO Manager salaries in B2C and B2B sectors, showing approximately £65K for B2C and £80K for B2B.

Career path & progression

Companies are actively investing in organic growth across traditional search engines as well as artificial intelligence and social media platforms. As a result, SEO Specialists are in high-demand across a variety of sectors.

When ready to progress their careers, SEO professionals might choose the following roles.

If SEO Managers are more hands-on in their role - producing copy for blogs, landing pages and social media - they might choose the Content Manager role. In this capacity, they will take on more of the content production work.

Find out more

With enough SEO and team management experience, talent can pursue the Head of SEO job title. Heads of SEO are accountable for a business's online performance, planning and implementing effective campaigns and strategies. Leading a team of content and SEO marketers, the Head of SEO ensures all copy is optimised and producing the intended results.

Ready to hire an SEO Manager? Get in touch to see how we can help!

Adrian Ramani Director

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