[Hiring] SEO Director @Fountain Forward

Role Description

Lead and own Fountain Forward's SEO function to increase automotive dealership client visibility, rankings, and conversions through organic search. Own SEO strategy, training, reporting, and quality of delivery across the SEO team. Shift focus from hands-on execution to leadership, coaching, process oversight, and performance accountability.

Responsibilities & Duties

• Strategic Leadership
  • Own the continuous improvement and evolution of the SEO service offering, identifying opportunities to improve strategy, processes, tools, and client outcomes.
  • Define and oversee the implementation of SEO strategies, including keyword research, content optimization, link building, and outreach initiatives, ensuring alignment with client goals and business objectives.
  • Stay ahead of industry trends and search engine algorithm updates.
  • Own SEO performance reporting and communicate department results, opportunities, risks, and strategic recommendations to Client Success Managers and leadership.
• Team Management
  • Recruit, train, and mentor SEO Specialists and Senior SEO Specialists.
  • Conduct regular training sessions covering department SOPs, documentation, and process changes; ensure the team understands expectations and receives coaching when needed.
  • Delegate execution tasks while focusing on leadership, coaching, and process oversight.
  • Serve as the final escalation point for complex or high-priority SEO issues.
  • Manage team capacity, workload allocation, and resource planning to ensure SEO deliverables are completed efficiently and meet client expectations.
• Process Ownership
  • Establish and oversee GMB management, optimization standards, and monthly/weekly posting processes across the portfolio, ensuring consistent execution and quality of SEO deliverables.
  • Ensure keyword research, audit, and reporting processes are standardized and consistently executed.
  • Drive the creation and delivery of performance reports and SEO analyses within SLA timelines.
  • Approve new templates, tools, and process improvements in collaboration with the Tech & Innovation team.
  • Maintain updated process documentation (SOPs, training materials, Looms, Lucidcharts).
  • Evaluate SEO tools, platforms, and resources to improve efficiency, reporting accuracy, and service capabilities.
• Quality & Compliance
  • Monitor SEO performance through weekly metrics, audits, and QC frameworks.
  • Ensure accuracy of data analysis, keyword rankings, and SEO reporting.
  • Track SLA compliance for reporting, onboarding, and client deliverables.
  • Ensure all activities align with company quality standards and client expectations.
• Cross-Departmental Collaboration
  • Partner with Client Success Managers (CSMs) to align SEO insights with dealership and client goals.
  • Work closely with Project Managers to support onboarding and custom requests.
  • Collaborate with Product, Technology, Analytics, and other departments to improve SEO tools, reporting capabilities, automation, and service delivery.
  • Contribute SEO insights to broader company strategy via the Strategy Council.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of SEO experience, including team leadership or management.
• Deep understanding of search engine algorithms and ranking methods.
• Clear knowledge of SEO industry programs: Google Analytics, Local Viking, Google Search Console, SEMrush/Ahrefs.
• Practical understanding of keyword research and data-mining tools.
• Ability to complete and review competitive audits / WIT Test Reviews.
• Comfortable analyzing high volumes of data consistently.
• Proficient in WordPress and SEO plugins; basic HTML.
• Advanced expertise with analytics tools (Google Analytics and related platforms).
• Practical familiarity with Web 20 Ranker for link building and SEO strategy.
• Strong organizational, time management, and analytical skills.
• High verbal and written communication skills; excellent writing and editing in English.
• Desire to learn, grow, and maintain a collaborative team attitude.

Preferred Experience & Competencies

• Automotive or roofing industry marketing experience (preferred).
• Demonstrated experience training/mentoring specialists in SEO.
• Process mindset, with a track record of building SOPs and scalable workflows.
• Strong cross-department collaboration skills (Sales, Creative, Analytics).
• Continuous-improvement focus — staying current on search trends, algorithm updates, and emerging tools.

Benefits

• Remote-First Culture: Work from home—or anywhere in the world. We value results, not where you log in from.
• Flexible Schedule: We offer flexibility in your daily schedule (within reason) to help you do your best work while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
• Unlimited Paid Time Off: Enjoy an unlimited vacation policy with just two weeks’ notice and manager approval. We also offer paid sick days because your well-being matters.
• Parental Leave: We understand the importance of supporting our team members during significant life events. Our maternity and paternity leave policy ensures you can prioritize your growing family without added stress.
• Room to Grow: We’re a fast-growing company with massive opportunities for upward mobility. As we grow, you grow with us.
• Professional Development: Get access to training in digital marketing, advertising, and leadership to sharpen your skills and advance your career.
• Quarterly Performance Bonuses: Earn bonuses based on your performance and contributions to the company’s success.
• Paid Referral Program: Earn rewards for referring great talent to join our team!
• Health & Fitness Reimbursement (upon tenure): Get support for health insurance or a gym membership—because your well-being matters.