[Hiring] Monetization Lead @Appodeal

Role Description

Appodeal is looking for a Monetization Lead to own ad monetization strategy and execution across our mobile gaming portfolio - WordMaker, Solitaire, and Brick Blast. This is a hands-on ownership role, not a coordination or reporting function. The Monetization Lead operates as a cross-functional integrator: pulling in Ad Tech, Analytics, and Product for a given app to drive eProfit outcomes, without needing direct reporting authority over those functions. You set the monetization agenda for the portfolio and are personally accountable for the results.

What You Own

• Monetization Strategy:
  • Define and evolve the ad monetization strategy across the games portfolio, grounded in eProfit outcomes rather than isolated ad-revenue metrics.
  • Own waterfall structure, floor pricing, and placement strategy across all titles.
  • Maintain live knowledge of eProfit, ARPDAU, eROAS, and fill/show rates across the portfolio. Stay in the data daily.
• Experimentation:
  • Build and run a rigorous, high-velocity A/B testing culture: waterfall configurations, placement density, floor optimization, network mix.
  • Translate experiment results into concrete, prioritized action — not just readouts.
  • Set the cadence and quality bar for how monetization hypotheses are tested across the team.
• Network & Partner Relationships:
  • Own and grow relationships with ad networks, DSPs, and exchanges relevant to casual gaming monetization.
  • Negotiate terms, unlock new demand sources, and resolve commercial or technical issues directly with partners.
  • Represent Appodeal in partner conversations as the accountable owner of monetization outcomes.
• Working With a Shared Intelligence Layer:
  • Operate without a dedicated in-house analytics headcount — pull data, attribution, and LTV models from the shared intelligence layer rather than building parallel infrastructure inside the function.
  • Partner with the data and RnD teams to make sure the intelligence layer serves monetization decision-making, rather than working around it.
• Cross-Functional Integration:
  • Act as the Product Owner for monetization on a given app — pulling in Ad Tech, Analytics, and Product as needed, without direct reporting lines over those functions.
  • Work closely with Product and UA to ensure monetization decisions are made in the context of full eProfit, not ad revenue in isolation.
  • Enable fast hypothesis testing and iteration cycles across the games portfolio.
• Team and Culture:
  • Build and lead a lean, high-talent team; raise the bar on talent density rather than grow headcount for its own sake.
  • Set a high bar for ownership, speed, and rigor. Address performance gaps directly.
  • Foster a culture where people act as DRIs, not ticket-resolvers.

Qualifications

• Proven, hands-on experience leading monetization specifically for casual, ad-monetized mobile games (cards, word, board, puzzle, or comparable evergreen genres).
• Track record building and scaling a rigorous, high-velocity experimentation culture (A/B testing, waterfall optimization) with measurable eProfit/ARPDAU/eROAS impact.
• Comfortable operating without a dedicated in-house analytics headcount.
• Strong existing relationships with ad networks, DSPs, and exchanges relevant to casual gaming monetization.
• Experience building and leading lean, high-talent teams.
• Comfortable acting as a cross-functional integrator (Product Owner model).

Requirements

• Have directly scaled ad-monetization revenue for a casual game from early traction to meaningful portfolio contribution.
• Experience with mediation platforms and waterfall management tools (e.g., AppLovin MAX, LevelPlay, Topon).
• Familiarity with analytics and attribution tools: Firebase, GameAnalytics, Amplitude, AppsFlyer.
• Experience negotiating commercial terms directly with ad networks or DSPs.
• History of operating in lean, low-headcount environments.

Benefits

• Ownership without guardrails — you set the monetization agenda across the portfolio.
• Real products, real traction — live, growing games with real users and data.
• Lean, high-trust team — small team, fast decisions, high impact per person.
• Shared intelligence layer — data, attribution, and LTV modeling from a shared function.
• Competitive compensation — competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and clear career growth opportunities.