JOB TITLE: Manager, Programmatic Buying
DATE: 2026
DEPARTMENT: Programmatic Media & Activation
REPORTS TO: VP of Media Investment
MAJOR PURPOSE:We are seeking a strategic, hands-on
Manager / Senior Manager, Programmatic Buying to lead our programmatic activation team within our specialized "agency-within-an-agency" model. In this role, you will directly manage a team of three Programmatic Buyers executing campaigns across
Display, Online Video (OLV), Connected TV (CTV), and Programmatic Digital Out-of-Home (pDOOH).
Beyond overseeing day-to-day DSP execution within
Viant, you will own our direct publisher relationships-negotiating private marketplace (PMP) deals, programmatic guaranteed (PG) buys, and custom direct partnerships to secure the lowest rates and highest added value for our client partners. You will serve as the primary strategic bridge between our programmatic execution team and our internal Account Management (Marketing) leads, translating client business objectives into high-performing, omnichannel media strategies.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES: Team Leadership & DSP Oversight- Lead, mentor, and manage the daily workflow, QA processes, and professional development of three Programmatic Buyers.
- Oversee end-to-end campaign architecture, pacing, optimization, and reporting across Display, OLV, CTV, and pDOOH.
- Serve as our internal subject matter expert and power user for Viant, ensuring the team maximizes the platform's household-level identity, targeting, measurement, and automated optimization capabilities.
Publisher Partnerships & Deal Negotiation- Own and cultivate direct relationships with premium publishers, SSPs, and ad networks for one-off and recurring direct deals.
- Lead RFP processes and rate negotiations on behalf of client partners to secure best-in-class CPMs, preferred inventory access, custom sponsorships, and meaningful added-value deliverables.
- Audit, troubleshoot, and optimize PMP and PG deal IDs to ensure seamless delivery, brand safety, and viewability compliance.
Strategic Account Liaison & Client Growth- Act as the senior programmatic voice alongside Account Management (Marketing), participating in client planning, QBRs, and pitch meetings.
- Translate high-level client KPIs and marketing briefs into actionable, multi-channel programmatic media plans and budget allocations.
- Deliver clear, narrative-driven performance insights and strategic recommendations that connect media metrics to tangible client outcomes.
Requirements
CANDIDATE SHOULD HAVE: - Experience: 5-8+ years of hands-on programmatic media buying and campaign management experience (agency or trading desk experience strongly preferred; Senior Manager title commensurate with experience and team leadership track record).
- Channel Mastery: Proven track record planning, executing, and optimizing across Display, OLV, CTV, and pDOOH.
- Platform Expertise: Deep technical proficiency in DSPs; direct hands-on experience with Viant is a major plus.
- Negotiation & Deal-Making: Demonstrated success negotiating direct publisher deals, PMPs, and PG agreements, with strong existing relationships across the digital media landscape.
- Leadership: At least 1-2 years of experience managing, mentoring, or reviewing the work of junior/mid-level buyers.
- Communication: Exceptional consultative skills with the ability to simplify complex ad-tech concepts for internal Account Management teams and external clients.
- Analytical Rigor: Advanced Excel/data analysis skills and familiarity with ad verification (IAS, DoubleVerify), attribution, and measurement frameworks.
What does Net Conversion have to offer?! Competitive Salary 4% 401k Match Medical / Employer covered at the base tier for the employee only Dental, & Vision options Unlimited PTO 60% Employer Covered STD Paid Parental leave after 1 years of service Critical illness, Cancer, Hospital, Life, Accident Coverage Flexible work schedule in our Orlando or Charlotte office Wellness Initiatives Summer Fridays (office closes at 2pm) Pet Benefits 3, 5 & 10 year anniversary milestone gifts
