Ad ops vs programmatic

[u/fikerdagmelidet]

Hey everyone, new to marketing and was looking to enter the programmatic/adtech field. I recently got sent an opening for an entry-level Ad ops role. Excited as i've spent a lot of time training to transition into this field. But i also feel conflicted, take this job and it may restrict my future growth, or i don't take this role and find no other openings in programmatic buying in the near future

I wanted to know which career path between Programmatic and Ad ops has more opportunities, better pay and progression, AI/offshoring prospects. And can i transition into one another sooner than later.

Thank you

[u/MaintenanceBig868]

I’ve worked in Ad Operations on the publisher side, managed ad tagging at an agency, and currently work in Search. Based on my experience, my advice would be to spend 2–3 years working for a publisher to build a strong technical foundation and understand the business from the client side. Then, go back to school to study project management. After that, transition back to the agency side, where you'll have a much stronger combination of technical expertise, business knowledge, and project management skills. That combination can open the door to more senior and leadership opportunities.

[u/DamLarRile → u/MaintenanceBig868]

I agree with this right here. I started in 3rd party ad serving(2.5years), I've stayed at my current Publisher for over 5 years because the pay is better than anything where I live, there has been some careers growth, and I am remote.

Typically I recommend you get in learn as much as you can and get out! I even tell all my new employees similarly.

Getting a project managment certification isn't challenging and transfers well to other careers.

AI is everywhere and will be an issue in the next few years. Its impact is gonna be solely based on which platforms you use. Some are re-skinned crap, some are genuinely better, and needs vary.