Linze Lucas, Marketing Expert in Walnut Creek, CA, United States
Linze is available for hire
Hire Linze

Linze Lucas

Verified Expert  in Marketing

Bio

Linze is an SEO and digital marketing expert with over a decade of experience. She has led campaigns that have transformed small brands into global names. At Stellium SEO, she delivered a remarkable 8,700% ROI for her first client in one year—far exceeding the average of 300% in three years. Linze's skills span business analysis, teaching, and content creation. She also holds a patent for an intent-based keyword research process, showcasing her forward-thinking approach to SEO.

Project Highlights

Stellium SEO | Direct Retail Client Case Study
Achieved an 8,700% ROI of $600,000+ for my first client within one year, far exceeding the average eCommerce SEO ROI of 300% over three years.
Stellium SEO | Technical & EAT Audit
Identified and resolved critical SEO issues, significantly improving search engine performance and user experience for numerous SEO clients and agencies via white-label usage.
Top-rated Professional on a Highly Competitive Platform
Ranked and maintained my status as a top 3% performer in a highly competitive network of contract and independent contributors.

Expertise

  • Content Creation
  • Copy Editing
  • Keyword Research
  • Research
  • SEO Audits
  • SEO Tools
  • SEO Writing
  • Technical SEO

Work Experience

SEO Consultant | Owner | CEO

2020 - PRESENT
Stellium SEO
  • Generated $600,000+ or 8,700% ROI for my first client within a year, far exceeding the average eCommerce SEO ROI of 300% over three years. As of July 2024, this client boasts an SEO ROI of roughly 10,780% - over 7 million USD.
  • Developed customized SEO strategies, significantly boosting web traffic and search rankings for multiple clients.
  • Led a team of SEOs in rewriting a major job board's SEO certification test.
  • Achieved top-rated and top-rated plus status on an online freelancing agency by building a solid reputation through consistent positive feedback from high-value contracts.
  • Generated 147% ROI via content strategy for a wedding company. Achieved top-1 ranking on Google for numerous competitive keywords. Managed writing staff, conceptualized, researched, edited, posted, and optimized content—both written and visual.
  • Authored a comprehensive Technical SEO chapter for a vacation rental guide, detailing strategies to enhance site performance, improve crawlability, and increase search visibility. This work demonstrated expertise in niche-specific SEO optimization.
  • Generated a 477% organic revenue ROI for a culinary tech gadget within a six-month campaign. Achieved top-1 ranking on Google for client's primary keyword.

Lead Instructor

2021 - 2022
ThriveDX Group
  • Served as the associate instructor for the complete digital marketing program and was named lead instructor for SEO, PPC advertising, and web copy and content writing.
  • Developed and delivered comprehensive training programs for digital marketing.
  • Enhanced students' skills and knowledge, contributing to their career advancement through in-class instruction and private on-request ThriveDX tutoring.

SEO Director

2020 - 2021
AUQ
  • Engineered SEO campaigns for various industries, including eCommerce, cannabis retailers, and large-scale fintech companies.
  • Managed internal link-builders, developers, design, and content strategy teams with the assistance of the agency's CEO. Hired and managed additional SEO experts, 3rd-party designers, and niche-specific content expert reviewers.
  • Started as an SEO strategist and was promoted to Director of SEO.
  • Testimonial: "Linze is a talented SEO and has had a tremendous positive impact on my agency. She understands client concerns and SEO strategy, both technical and content, and is very responsible. I'd be happy to recommend her..." – Kirill Sajaev, CEO.

Course Mentor

2018 - 2021
Coursera
  • Invited to join the mentorship team after helping fellow SEO students navigate outdated areas of the course material with official Google, Bing, and Yahoo documentation.
  • Facilitated discussions and guided students in SEO and social psychology courses. I was asked to return as a mentor in August 2024 after stepping down in 2021.
  • Advised students and provided feedback to universities and instructors for course improvements.

SEO Strategist

2019 - 2020
Victorious
  • Identified critical errors in the on-page keyword implementation process, improving campaign effectiveness across all clients.
  • Performed keyword research and competitor analysis to guide client content strategies across numerous niches. Educated clients on keyword strategy and optimization recommendations.
  • Conducted and helped implement 80+ point technical audits, including UI/UX conversion rate optimization audits, Google My Business audits, site migration mappings, and keyword cannibalization audits, to assist with optimization.
  • Participated in sales calls to explain site issues to potential clients and assist with deal closure. Answered company-wide questions regarding SEO and site issues to help support client contracts.
  • Wrote blog posts for the Victorious website, contributing to brand authority.
  • Crafted various audits, including expertise, authority, and trustworthiness (EAT), application store optimization for iOS and Android, and job or career schema for job board clients.
  • Established the event website management and schema implementation guide, schema opportunities audit and analysis, and blog or content directory creation guide and best practices.
  • Created technical audit training videos for in-house team skill development.
  • Evaluated backlink profiles and recommended effective link-building strategies.
  • Rewrote client content and code sections to enhance search engine presence through schema features.

Assistant Marketing Manager – SEO

2018 - 2019
Healthline Media
  • Increased the "sessions over a 6-month period" metric by over 200%.
  • Conducted keyword research and competitor analysis to guide content creation and identify improvement opportunities.
  • Ensured content complied with on-page optimization tactics and strategies and advised the editorial team on content improvement and SEO best practices.
  • Appointed as the process owner for Healthline.com's site audits and created the SEO Audit Resource Guide and Audit Instructions Manual.
  • Assisted with A/B testing to gauge search engine ranking tactics and developed the testing dashboard for SEO A/B testing.
  • Conceptualized, pitched, and assisted in launching a DNA lab testing partnership with Everlywell.
  • Documented and automated the editorial to SEO triage process, capturing content ownership and changes for the editorial and SEO teams.
  • Created marketing insight reports per medical condition to assess content performance and identify areas for expansion.

IT Business Systems Analyst

2015 - 2018
Xerox
  • Achieved project allocation exceeding 275% upon resignation.
  • Appointed to join the cross-department Agile Process Improvement Tiger team, which consists of employees believed to possess the knowledge and capabilities required to transform the business into a modern, competitive entity.
  • Conducted charter analysis to ensure alignment with business needs, documented business, transition, and system requirements, and created use case documentation for internal and vendor requirement handoff.
  • Re-engineered business processes to align with Siebel CRM capabilities and created process diagrams, data flows, work processes, and cross-platform integration maps.
  • Ensured the traceability of forward and backward requirements within the business requirements document (BRD) and produced alignment matrices between BRD and functional design documents.
  • Planned, developed, and executed user acceptance testing to validate business solutions' effectiveness, producing metrics reports based on requirements delivery.
  • Operated as the business system analyst (BSA) newsletter team lead and a contributing author. Supported the BSA community of practice and worked with the senior leadership team to improve corporate practices.

Project History

Stellium SEO | Direct Retail Client Case Study

https://stelliumseo.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/stelliumseo-seo-case-study-retail-direct-client-01.pdf

Achieved an 8,700% ROI of $600,000+ for my first client within one year, far exceeding the average eCommerce SEO ROI of 300% over three years.

I implemented a minimalistic, collaborative SEO strategy focused on intent-based keyword research. I achieved exceptional results during the pandemic by securing top industry keyword rankings and substantial ROI. This process has since been patented.

Stellium SEO | Technical & EAT Audit

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1vuRCEMbSS61Teq6nwARC3QqUwiI0vmSlX1p7cxsBiG0/edit?usp=sharing

Identified and resolved critical SEO issues, significantly improving search engine performance and user experience for numerous SEO clients and agencies via white-label usage.

I designed a technical audit template that prioritizes SEO tasks and validates each suggested solution by providing links to high-authority resources. The result is an actionable work breakdown structure that details specific site issues, identifies the responsible technical resources to fix each problem, assesses the importance of each issue, and provides resolution timelines. This enables clients to appoint 3rd-party resources to implement the audits or to use in-house technical experts.

Top-rated Professional on a Highly Competitive Platform

Ranked and maintained my status as a top 3% performer in a highly competitive network of contract and independent contributors.

A top-rated plus status at this agency represented the top 3% of performers who have built a solid reputation by earning consistently positive feedback and engaging in high-value contracts. My profile on this platform consists of consistent 5-star reviews for services rendered.

TESTIMONIALS

"Got some great help from Linze, as usual. She's fantastic to work with as she always hits her deadlines and has the technical chops to help with the more advanced SEO tasks." - Anonymous, Agency, CEO

"Fantastic experience working with Linzie. Very knowledgeable and easy to work with. She explained her thought process very well. Bonus: She has professional-looking deliverables! Will hire again." - Anonymous Agency, CEO

"Linze has in-depth SEO knowledge; she is a great communicator and project manager. I recommend her for managing your SEO campaigns." - CEO of Language Translation Company.

Content Writing Samples

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1I_xh3g_J0ZJNgxgx68ZN_TAWW0USM1iO_fhXyff9NcU/edit?usp=sharing

Created compelling content for various niches, including bridal fashion, technical SEO, and entertainment, showcasing versatility in tone, style, and depth.

This collection of writing samples demonstrates my ability to craft content tailored to different audiences and industries. From elegant and detailed product descriptions for bridal shoes to in-depth technical guides on SEO for vacation rentals and engaging blog posts on entertainment, each piece reflects a commitment to quality, clarity, and audience engagement. My work is designed to enhance user experience, improve SEO, and drive conversions, making me a versatile asset for any content project.

Conversion Rate Optimization Audits

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qAj2F-RC9_3-xuGOFm-HuiSyuhvlveKbfCj1iUgXlcA/edit?usp=sharing

Initiated the redesign of several clients' conversion rate optimization strategies, boosting conversion rates, closing navigation loops, and improving user experience and, ultimately, search rankings.

Initiated several comprehensive conversion rate optimization (CRO) projects for various clients. These projects leveraged Google Analytics data and UX theories to enhance user flows, site menus, and lead generation strategies through practices like call-to-action color theories and advanced filter design. Competitor analysis informed the introduction of engaging features such as interactive 360° product views and detailed infographics, leveling the playing field between vendors and enriching user experiences. These initiatives significantly increased conversion rates, lead generation, and sign-ups while reducing bounce rates and cart abandonment. It is important to note that while these reports are backed by data and research, I always recommend collaborating with a seasoned UX design expert to ensure the best results.

Content Strategy

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1_BoicRdW8e5RMeKw9WKPVL6g0CLehZit09lMQdel8Pg/edit?usp=sharing

Contributed to this adaptable content strategy that has been used for multiple clients across multiple niches, resulting in traffic acceleration during algorithm updates, robust ROIs, and content that truly helps clients' customers.

I’ve collaborated with numerous agencies, navigating various techniques from keyword clustering to pillar strategies. However, I’ve found many of these methods to be outdated, especially in today’s SEO landscape. A common practice among SEOs is to analyze competitors and suggest copying and “improving” their content. This approach led to many brands struggling after the September Helpful Content Update. While keyword research remains crucial, a more holistic approach is necessary. This includes engaging with customer service teams, monitoring social media, and exploring popular forums to uncover your customers’ most frequent and uncommon queries. By crafting unique and highly relevant content that addresses these issues, my full-service and content curation clients rapidly rose to the top of their niches post-update.

Education

2004 - 2009

Dual Bachelor's Degree in English and Creative Writing (Minor in History)

State University of New York - Oswego, NY, USA

Certifications

NOVEMBER 2024 - PRESENT

Master AI Tools to Supercharge Productivity

Vanderbilt University | via Coursera

NOVEMBER 2024 - PRESENT

OpenAI GPTs: Creating Your Own Custom AI Assistants

Vanderbilt University | via Coursera

OCTOBER 2024 - PRESENT

Advanced Prompt Engineering for Everyone

Vanderbilt University | via Coursera

AUGUST 2024 - PRESENT

Understanding Data: Navigating Statistics, Science, and AI Specialization

University of Michigan | via Coursera

AUGUST 2024 - PRESENT

Decoding AI: A Deep Dive into AI Models and Predictions

University of Michigan | via Coursera

AUGUST 2024 - PRESENT

How Science Turns Data Into Knowledge

University of Michigan | via Coursera

JULY 2024 - PRESENT

How to Describe Data

University of Michigan | via Coursera

JULY 2024 - JULY 2025

Google Analytics Certification

Google Skillshop

FEBRUARY 2024 - PRESENT

Creative Artifacts

Parsons School of Design | via Coursera

FEBRUARY 2024 - PRESENT

Creativity and AI Specialization

Parsons School of Design | via Coursera

FEBRUARY 2024 - PRESENT

Natural Creativity

Parsons School of Design | via Coursera

JANUARY 2024 - PRESENT

Artificial Creativity

Parsons School of Design | via Coursera

DECEMBER 2023 - PRESENT

ChatGPT Advanced Data Analysis

Vanderbilt University | via Coursera

DECEMBER 2023 - PRESENT

Prompt Engineering Specialization

Vanderbilt University | via Coursera

NOVEMBER 2023 - PRESENT

Trustworthy Generative AI

Vanderbilt University | via Coursera

NOVEMBER 2023 - PRESENT

Prompt Engineering for ChatGPT

Vanderbilt University | via Coursera

JANUARY 2022 - JANUARY 2024

Google Ads Display Certification

Google Skillshop

JANUARY 2020 - PRESENT

Introduction to CSS3

University of Michigan | via Coursera

DECEMBER 2019 - PRESENT

Introduction to HTML5

University of Michigan | via Coursera

OCTOBER 2019 - OCTOBER 2022

Advanced Google Analytics

Google Analytics Academy

MAY 2019 - MAY 2022

Google Analytics for Beginners

Google Analytics Academy

MAY 2018 - PRESENT

Coursera Mentor Community and Training Course

Coursera

MARCH 2018 - PRESENT

SEO Specialization

University of California, Davis | Coursera

FEBRUARY 2018 - PRESENT

Advanced Search Engine Optimization Strategies

University of California, Davis | via Coursera

JANUARY 2018 - PRESENT

Advanced Content and Social Tactics to Optimize SEO

University of California, Davis | via Coursera

DECEMBER 2017 - PRESENT

Optimizing a Website for Google Search

University of California, Davis | via Coursera

NOVEMBER 2017 - PRESENT

Google SEO Fundamentals

University of California, Davis | via Coursera

OCTOBER 2017 - PRESENT

Introduction to Google SEO

University of California, Davis | via Coursera

Skills

Core

Local SEO, SEO Tools, SEO Audits, SEO Content, Google SEO, On-page SEO, Keyword Research, SEO Keyword Research, Organic SEO, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Content Creation, Writing & Editing, Blogging, Digital Marketing Strategy, Content Marketing, Content Strategy, App Store Optimization (ASO), Copywriting, Pay-per-Click (PPC), Sales, Link Building, Content Marketing Strategy, Topic Clusters, Brand Strategy, Google Ads, AI Marketing, Product Marketing, Digital Marketing, SEO Backlinking, Landing Pages, Agile Transformation, Marketing, Conversion Rate Optimization (CRO), Article Rewriting, Email Campaigns, Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI)

Platforms & Tools

Content Management Systems (CMS), Yoast SEO, Ahrefs, Screaming Frog, Google Analytics 4

Technical

Google Search Console, CSS3

Other

Copy Editing, Web Content, Creativity, SEO Writing, Content Writing, Global SEO, Technical SEO, Keyword Analysis, Keyword Mapping, Requirements Analysis, Competitive Analysis, Google E-E-A-T, eCommerce SEO, SEO Penalty Recovery, Content Audits, Link Vetting, Blogs, eCommerce, SEO Copywriting, Growth Strategy, Growth Marketing, Digital Strategy, Advertising, Video Scripts, Research, Video Editing, Web Research, Management, UX Design, UX Analysis, UX Research, Technical Project Management, Google Keyword Planner, User Research, Quality Assurance (QA), User Acceptance Testing (UAT), Business Acceptance Testing, Meetings, Test Scripting, Metrics, Incident Management, Use Case Document, Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), SEO Reporting, Semrush, SEO with AI, YouTube SEO, Shopify SEO, Teaching, HTML5, Prompt Engineering, AI Content Creation, Ad Optimization, Wix, Scriptwriting, Videography, Article Writing, Seos, Waterfall Methodology, Data Analytics, Google Sheets, ChatGPT, Entertainment & Leisure, User Experience (UX), Data, Data Reporting, Marketing Reports, Finance, AI Prompts, in context ai learning, Retrieval Augmented Generation, custom GPTs, prompt validation

Collaboration That Works

How to Work with Toptal

Toptal matches you directly with global industry experts from our network in hours—not weeks or months.

1

Share your needs

Discuss your requirements and refine your scope in a call with a Toptal domain expert.
2

Choose your talent

Get a short list of expertly matched talent within 24 hours to review, interview, and choose from.
3

Start your risk-free talent trial

Work with your chosen talent on a trial basis for up to two weeks. Pay only if you decide to hire them.

Top talent is in high demand.

Start hiring