Job Overview
The SEO Manager (or Search Engine Optimisation Manager) orchestrates all organic search strategies to maximise website visibility in Google and other search engines. They define SEO strategy, coordinate technical and content teams, and continuously analyse performance to improve rankings.
The role evolves rapidly with Google algorithm updates, the growing importance of AI in search (SGE, AI Overviews) and emerging formats (voice search, featured snippets, Search Generative Experience).
Key Responsibilities
SEO strategy definition
Develop SEO strategy aligned with business objectives. Conduct comprehensive SEO audit (technical, content, authority), analyse competitors and identify high-value keyword opportunities.
Technical SEO optimisation
Identify and fix technical issues affecting ranking: page speed, crawlability, indexation, site architecture, structured data, mobile-friendliness and Core Web Vitals.
Keyword research and content strategy
Conduct in-depth keyword research, identify search intent, define semantic architecture and guide content teams in creating SEO-optimised articles.
On-page content optimisation
Optimise title tags, meta descriptions, headers, internal linking and content to maximise ranking potential.
Link building and authority (off-page SEO)
Build domain authority through quality backlinks: press relations, partnerships, guest blogging, broken link building. Monitor link profile and disavow toxic links.
Analytics and reporting
Track SEO KPIs (rankings, organic traffic, conversion rates) using Google Search Console, Analytics and SEO tools (Semrush, Ahrefs).
Required Skills
Technical Skills vs Soft Skills
- Deep expertise in on-page and off-page SEO
- Proficiency with SEO tools (Semrush, Ahrefs, Screaming Frog, GSC)
- Technical knowledge: HTML, CSS, basic JavaScript
- CMS and analytics tool expertise
- Advanced Google Analytics 4 and Tag Manager
- Copywriting and editorial optimisation
- Analytical mindset and methodological rigour
- Curiosity and continuous learning about SEO
- Ability to communicate technical concepts clearly
- Patience and long-term vision
- Adaptability to algorithm changes
- Strategic thinking and business acumen
Salary and Compensation
Salary Scale 2026 (annual gross)
| Experience | SME/Startup | Large Enterprise | London |
|---|---|---|---|
| Junior (0-3 years) | 30-38K€ | 32-42K€ | +10-15% |
| Established (3-6 years) | 38-48K€ | 42-52K€ | +10-15% |
| Senior (6-10 years) | 48-60K€ | 52-70K€ | +15-20% |
| Head of SEO (10+ years) | 60-80K€ | 70-100K€ | +20-30% |
SEO Evolution with AI
What is the difference between SEO Manager and SEO Consultant?
Must an SEO Manager know how to code?
Does SEO have a future with AI?
How long does SEO strategy take to show results?
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