Advertising Agency President

Automotive Marketing Director — Automotive Dealership

Location:

Manhattan Kansas
Position Type:
Full-Time
Experience Level: Senior

Be part of something new. A well-established automotive dealership group is launching an in-house advertising agency to handle marketing for 10+ dealership locations across the region. We’re looking for an experienced marketing leader to build and run this agency from the ground up.

This is a rare ground‑floor opportunity to shape the vision, build the team, and establish processes while having the stability and resources of an established automotive group behind you. You’ll have built‑in clients, eliminating the pressure of constant new business development, allowing you to focus on creating exceptional work and building a high‑performing team.

• Lead the strategic direction and daily operations of a new in‑house advertising agency
• Develop and execute comprehensive marketing strategies across 10+ dealership rooftops
• Build, mentor, and manage a creative team (Account Executive, Graphic Designer, Production Coordinator)
• Maintain brand consistency while ensuring OEM compliance across all locations
• Oversee campaign development from concept through execution across digital, print, broadcast, and social media
• Manage agency P&L, budgets, vendor relationships, and contract negotiations
• Serve as primary liaison between agency and dealership ownership/management
• Ensure all marketing efforts drive measurable results in sales, service, and customer retention
• Stay ahead of automotive marketing trends and implement innovative strategies
• Position the agency for potential external client acquisition as operations mature

• 5+ years of marketing leadership experience, preferably in advertising agency or in‑house marketing
• Proven track record developing and executing successful multi‑channel marketing campaigns
• Strong strategic thinking with the ability to translate business objectives into marketing strategies
• Experience managing teams, budgets, and multiple projects simultaneously
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Deep understanding of digital marketing, traditional media, and integrated campaigns
• Proficiency with marketing analytics and performance measurement
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment

• Automotive marketing or dealership experience
• Experience building or scaling an agency or marketing department
• Knowledge of OEM brand guidelines and compliance requirements
• Familiarity with CRM platforms, marketing automation, and customer data management
• Existing relationships with media buyers, production vendors, and creative freelancers

• Compensation Range: $120,000 - $160,000 annually
• Performance‑based incentives
• Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision)
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Professional development opportunities
• Autonomy to build and shape your own agency
• Stable, established company with entrepreneurial opportunity
• Manhattan, Kansas location: affordable cost of living, college town amenities, family‑friendly community

We’re an established automotive dealership group with 10+ locations and a reputation for excellence in customer service and community involvement. We’re investing in the future of our marketing capabilities by bringing advertising in‑house, and we need the right leader to make it happen.

Submit your resume along with a cover letter explaining why you’re the right person to build this agency. Include examples of successful campaigns you’ve led and your vision for what an in‑house automotive advertising agency should accomplish.

We’re an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace.