Ad Operations Specialist Job Titles

Ad Operations Coordinator

An entry-level role, the Ad Operations Coordinator supports the ad operations team by managing ad campaign logistics, troubleshooting issues, and coordinating with vendors. They are essential in ensuring the smooth execution of digital advertising campaigns.

Ad Operations Specialist

A mid-level position, the Ad Operations Specialist is responsible for the setup, management, and optimization of ad campaigns. They analyse performance data and make adjustments to improve campaign effectiveness and efficiency.

Ad Operations Manager

Overseeing a team of specialists and coordinators, the Ad Operations Manager ensures that all ad operations are running smoothly. They develop strategies to optimise ad delivery, manage relationships with publishers and advertisers, and contribute to revenue growth.

Director of Ad Operations

A senior role, the Director of Ad Operations leads the ad operations department, setting policies and strategies. They work closely with sales and marketing teams to align ad operations with broader business objectives and drive innovation in ad tech usage.

VP of Ad Operations

An executive role, the VP of Ad Operations oversees the entire ad operations function within an organisation. They are responsible for driving operational excellence, maximising revenue, and staying ahead of industry trends and technological advancements.

Chief Revenue Officer (CRO)

While not exclusive to Ad Operations, the CRO is a top-tier position that often encompasses oversight of ad operations as part of their broader responsibility for all revenue-generating processes and strategy within a company.

Each role within the Ad Operations hierarchy requires a distinct skill set, from technical knowledge of ad serving platforms to strategic thinking and leadership abilities. As the digital advertising landscape continues to evolve, so do the opportunities for Ad Operations professionals to grow and specialise in this dynamic field.

Ad Operations Coordinator

Ad Operations Coordinators are the backbone of the ad operations team, ensuring that ad campaigns are set up correctly and run smoothly. They work closely with clients and internal teams to traffic ads, troubleshoot issues, and provide reports on campaign performance. This role is crucial for maintaining the quality and efficiency of ad delivery.

Ad Operations Analyst

Ad Operations Analysts focus on the data side of advertising campaigns. They are responsible for monitoring campaign performance, analysing metrics, and providing insights to optimise ad delivery. Their work helps improve targeting, increase engagement, and maximise return on investment for advertisers.

Ad Trafficker

Ad Traffickers specialise in the technical aspects of ad campaign setup. They manage the insertion orders, configure ad creatives in the ad server, and ensure that ads are displayed to the right audience at the right time. This role is essential for the operational success of digital advertising campaigns.

Programmatic Support Specialist

Programmatic Support Specialists assist with the automated buying and selling of ad inventory. They help manage real-time bidding (RTB) platforms and maintain relationships with Demand-Side Platforms (DSPs) and Supply-Side Platforms (SSPs). Their role is key in navigating the complex programmatic ecosystem.

Digital Ad Sales Assistant

Digital Ad Sales Assistants support the sales team by preparing proposals, managing client accounts, and conducting market research. They often serve as a liaison between sales, ad operations, and clients, ensuring that all parties are aligned and that campaigns are set up for success. This role provides a comprehensive view of the ad sales process and is a stepping stone to more advanced positions in digital advertising.

Ad Operations Manager

Ad Operations Managers are responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of ad campaigns. They ensure that campaigns are executed efficiently, meet performance goals, and are optimised for maximum revenue. This role involves close collaboration with sales teams, publishers, and clients to manage expectations and deliver results.

Programmatic Campaign Manager

Programmatic Campaign Managers specialise in the management of programmatic ad buys. They use data and real-time bidding platforms to purchase ad inventory, optimising campaigns for performance and budget. Their expertise in programmatic strategies is vital for maximising the effectiveness of ad spend.

Ad Tech Specialist

Ad Tech Specialists focus on the technical aspects of ad operations, including the implementation and troubleshooting of ad serving systems, programmatic platforms, and tracking technologies. They play a critical role in ensuring that the ad tech stack integrates seamlessly and operates without issues.

Ad Operations Analyst

Ad Operations Analysts dive into campaign data to extract actionable insights. They monitor and analyse performance metrics, identify trends, and provide recommendations for optimisation. Their analytical skills are essential for refining ad strategies and improving overall campaign effectiveness.

Inventory/Yield Manager

Inventory/Yield Managers are tasked with managing the supply of ad inventory and maximising yield. They develop pricing strategies, forecast inventory availability, and work to balance the needs of publishers with advertiser demand. Their role is crucial in ensuring that inventory is sold at the best possible price while maintaining fill rates.

Ad Operations Coordinator

Ad Operations Coordinators are the backbone of the ad operations team, ensuring that ad campaigns are set up correctly and run smoothly. They work closely with clients and internal teams to traffic ads, troubleshoot issues, and provide reports on campaign performance. This role is crucial for maintaining the quality and efficiency of ad delivery.

Ad Operations Analyst

Ad Operations Analysts focus on the data side of advertising campaigns. They are responsible for monitoring campaign performance, analysing metrics, and providing insights to optimise ad delivery. Their work helps improve targeting, increase engagement, and maximise return on investment for advertisers.

Ad Trafficker

Ad Traffickers specialise in the technical aspects of ad campaign setup. They manage the insertion orders, configure ad creatives in the ad server, and ensure that ads are displayed to the right audience at the right time. This role is essential for the operational success of digital advertising campaigns.

Programmatic Support Specialist

Programmatic Support Specialists assist with the automated buying and selling of ad inventory. They help manage real-time bidding (RTB) platforms and maintain relationships with Demand-Side Platforms (DSPs) and Supply-Side Platforms (SSPs). Their role is key in navigating the complex programmatic ecosystem.

Digital Ad Sales Assistant

Digital Ad Sales Assistants support the sales team by preparing proposals, managing client accounts, and conducting market research. They often serve as a liaison between sales, ad operations, and clients, ensuring that all parties are aligned and that campaigns are set up for success. This role provides a comprehensive view of the ad sales process and is a stepping stone to more advanced positions in digital advertising.

Director of Ad Operations

The Director of Ad Operations leads the ad operations department, ensuring the seamless execution of digital advertising campaigns across various platforms. They are responsible for ad server management, campaign optimisation, and overseeing the integration of new ad technologies.

Director of Programmatic Strategy

This role specialises in the strategic implementation of programmatic buying and selling of digital advertising. The Director of Programmatic Strategy develops and manages relationships with Demand Side Platforms (DSPs), Supply Side Platforms (SSPs), and ad exchanges to maximise revenue and efficiency.

Director of Advertising Technology

Responsible for the selection, implementation, and management of ad tech stacks, the Director of Advertising Technology ensures that the organisation is at the forefront of advertising technology innovations. They work closely with vendors and internal teams to optimise ad delivery and performance.

Director of Monetization

The Director of Monetization is pivotal in developing and executing strategies to increase revenue through digital advertising. They analyse market trends, set pricing strategies, and work with sales and ad operations teams to optimise fill rates and eCPMs.

Director of Inventory and Yield Management

Focusing on the management of digital ad inventory, the Director of Inventory and Yield Management uses data analytics to forecast inventory and set yield strategies. They ensure that the organisation maximises revenue while maintaining the quality of ad placements.

Vice President of Ad Operations

This title represents a senior executive who is responsible for the overall management and strategy of the advertising operations department. The VP of Ad Operations ensures that all aspects of ad delivery, tracking, and optimisation are executed efficiently, aligning with the company's revenue and growth objectives.

VP of Programmatic Strategy

Focusing on the automated buying and selling of ad inventory, this role involves leading the programmatic strategy. The VP of Programmatic Strategy oversees real-time bidding, programmatic buying, and data-driven decision-making to enhance ad performance and revenue.

VP of Digital Advertising

This role is dedicated to the strategic planning and execution of digital advertising campaigns. The VP of Digital Advertising analyses digital trends, manages online ad placements, and ensures that digital strategies are integrated effectively within the broader advertising goals of the company.

VP of Ad Technology and Platforms

Bridging the gap between ad operations and technology, this role involves overseeing the selection and implementation of ad tech solutions. The VP of Ad Technology and Platforms ensures that the advertising stack is optimised, supports programmatic initiatives, and aligns with data privacy standards.

Deepen Your Understanding of Ad Tech

As an Ad Operations Specialist, a profound knowledge of ad tech platforms, programmatic buying, and real-time bidding is crucial. Invest time in learning about new technologies and tools that can streamline ad delivery and targeting. Your ability to navigate and optimise these systems can set you apart and prepare you for advanced positions.

Strengthen Analytical and Reporting Skills

Data is the lifeblood of advertising operations. Hone your skills in analytics and reporting to interpret campaign performance data effectively. Being able to draw actionable insights and communicate them clearly to stakeholders is essential for moving up to a more strategic role within your organisation.

Enhance Communication and Negotiation Abilities

Ad Operations is a cross-functional role that often requires interaction with sales teams, clients, and publishers. Developing strong communication and negotiation skills can help you manage these relationships more effectively, leading to better campaign outcomes and positioning you as a leader in your field.

Focus on Campaign Optimisation and ROI

To advance in Ad Operations, demonstrate a consistent ability to optimise campaigns for better performance and return on investment (ROI). Showcasing your expertise in maximising ad spend efficiency can prove your potential for higher-level roles that demand a keen eye for profitability.

Cultivate Leadership and Strategic Planning Skills

As you look to move up from an Ad Operations Specialist title, leadership and the ability to strategise are indispensable. Work on leading projects or teams, even in small capacities, to build your experience. A strategic mindset will help you understand the broader business objectives and align your operations work with the company's goals.

Programmatic Manager

Programmatic Managers specialise in automated ad buying and selling processes. They use data and technology to make real-time decisions about which ads to buy and how to optimise campaigns. This role requires a deep understanding of ad platforms and algorithms, making it a natural progression for Ad Operations Specialists looking to move up the ladder.

Data Analyst

Data Analysts are crucial in interpreting the vast amounts of data generated by digital advertising campaigns. They help organisations make informed decisions based on performance metrics and user behaviour. As an Ad Operations Specialist, developing data analysis skills can lead to a deeper understanding of campaign performance and optimisation strategies.

Media Planner

Media Planners are responsible for selecting the most appropriate media channels for advertising campaigns to reach target audiences effectively. They work closely with Ad Operations Specialists to ensure that the chosen channels deliver the expected results. Understanding media planning can provide Ad Operations Specialists with a broader perspective on ad placement and strategy.

Ad Sales Manager

Ad Sales Managers focus on generating revenue by selling advertising space to businesses and agencies. They need to understand the technical aspects of ad operations to effectively communicate the value of their inventory. For Ad Operations Specialists, this role offers an opportunity to leverage their technical expertise in a more client-facing, revenue-driven environment.

Customer Success Manager

Customer Success Managers play a pivotal role in ensuring clients are satisfied with the advertising services provided. They need to understand the technicalities of ad campaigns to troubleshoot issues and provide solutions. Ad Operations Specialists with strong communication skills and a customer-centric approach may find this role a rewarding advancement opportunity.