About us: The Story Behind ClickTrain

Why we built a platform to solve the scaling flaws of a PPC agency and how it's changing the way performance teams scale.

ClickTrain started from a realisation I had, running my own PPC agency. Everyone said their biggest challenge was finding new clients, but when I looked closer, I saw the real issue was how we worked: too much stress, too little time, and too many inefficient systems.

During lockdown, we saw this pattern repeat across dozens of teams. Leaders were overworked, talent was burning out, and manual processes were limiting profitability. So, I asked a hard question:
"What if agencies could scale without adding stress?"

The answer became ClickTrain: a platform designed by PPCs for PPCs, blending automation, analytics, and talent systems to build happier, more efficient performance teams.


4 out of 5 Agency Leaders

4/5 Agency Leaders said they consistently feel "Stressed and Overworked"


Lockdown prompted me to implement changes to my PPC Agency — reducing stress, increasing freedom, improving mental health & focusing on other interests like ClickTrain.


Lockdown
Idea icon

Something needed to change

Agency Performance Report

Scaling the Right Way

Our PPC teams were scaling, but profitability wasn't keeping up. We discovered that most of our team's time went into daily budget management instead of strategy. So we restructured how we measured, capped, and allocated time across accounts.

  • Repurposed 15 hours per PPC Executive
  • Increased profitability by 16%
  • Improved operational efficiency by 28%

These changes didn't just improve performance — they inspired the foundation for ClickTrain, a platform built to help every agency leader scale smarter, reduce stress, and regain control.

Our Roadmap to Traction

What started as an internal monitoring tool for our own SEM/PPC agency evolved into a full platform designed to help performance teams scale. Each stage: from stealth mode to beta, to the skills testing and subscription rollout has been shaped by agency feedback and real-world experience.

ClickTrain Roadmap to Traction
Andrew Bloch

Andrew Bloch

Founder and ex-Agency Owner

Who I am:

I’m a former SEM agency owner turned PPC recruiter and tech builder, focused on creating solutions that help performance marketing agencies scale efficiently. I’ve always been obsessed with the future, thinking five years ahead and finding ways to turn that vision into real, measurable growth.

Before founding ClickTrain, I built Kaomi Marketing, a Cape Town–based SEM agency that managed over $30M in ad spendwith a team of 15 across Africa and Europe. We helped large marketplaces grow through a blend of PPC, SEO, and deep tech integrations that connected data and decisions seamlessly.

What makes me different is my ability to blend performance marketing expertise with code and automation. I love building systems that make smart decisions while I sleep, from machine learning signals to automated campaign management.

My mission today is simple: help enterprises spend smarter, create jobs, and unlock South Africa’s digital potential. I thrive on leading teams toward disruptive ideas and building the tech that makes them possible.

Tyler Higgins

Tyler Higgins

Talent Director & In-housing Specialist

Who I am:

I joined ClickTrain as the first team member to help turn the agency efficiency framework behind our story into a platform that scales. My background in digital recruitment and PPC operations means I've seen both sides of the agency equation the stress of delivery and the difficulty of finding the right people to share the load.

Before ClickTrain, I worked across recruitment and marketing roles at Kaomi Marketing (with Andrew) and Talent Magnet, helping teams build structure around hiring, onboarding, and performance tracking. Those experiences shaped my belief that scaling an agency isn't just about getting more clients: it's about building a repeatable process that keeps people motivated and profitable.

At ClickTrain, I focus on connecting agency leaders with skills-tested specialists and refining the systems that make our talent marketplace transparent and reliable. My goal is to make hiring for PPC, Paid Social, and SEO roles as predictable as media buying itself.

Getting PPC Managers Out of the Weeds

Most PPC managers spend their days firefighting adjusting bids, fixing feeds, and managing endless ad changes. ClickTrain helps them step back from the grind. By automating the manual, surfacing insights that matter, and structuring campaigns around performance signals, we free up time for strategy, creative testing, and scale.

Before Skills Graph

Before: Stuck managing tasks, little time for optimization.

After Skills Graph

After: Focused on growth, automation handles the heavy lifting.

This is what growth looks like PPC managers moving from tactical execution to strategic performance leadership.

Want a platform to grow your PPC Agency?

To hear more about how we can help you? Get in touch today!

Book a Discovery Call
Still got questions?
Get ready for a new way to manage PPC Talent
How are PPC specialists on ClickTrain certified?
Specialists undergo a comprehensive evaluation, including:
  • Screening and skills self-assessment.
  • KYC and right-to-work checks.
  • Advanced skills testing in specific areas.
We also equip customers with PPCListenr to monitor talent, ensuring ongoing quality control. This continuous evaluation ensures only the highest standards of professionalism on the platform.
How much does a specialist charge?
Pricing varies and is set by each PPC Specialist based on their experience, expertise, and industry focus. Rates and minimum retainers vary, allowing you to choose a professional that aligns with your budget and needs. Specialists may have different experience levels and skills, which directly influence their rates.
How much does it cost to join as talent?
Joining our platform as a Freelancer or Employee is free with a restricted profile. We offer additional value for agencies and agency leaders. Paid plans are available through various pricing structures for those who wish to access enhanced features and services. Sign up to learn more about our vetting requirements and optional plans.
What rates can you ask for once on the platform?
  • Freelancers: Set hourly rates.
  • Full-time professionals: Set annual salary expectations.
  • Agencies: Set minimum retainers.
This allows businesses to match your profile with their budget and project requirements.
How does ClickTrain make money?
ClickTrain earns revenue through a combination of subscription plans, service fees, and commissions. We offer subscription packages for individuals and agencies to access new opportunites, insights, and managed hiring support. Additionally, we charge service fees on direct hiring engagements and earn commissions on direct matches when hired through our platform. We also provide premium add-ons like skills assessments for a fee. This diversified model allows us to support businesses in finding top PPC talent while maintaining a sustainable operation.
What are the differences in the verification of talent?
Talent joins and starts as unverified before taking a job all talent has completed our mandatory verification (KYC and background checks). Talent can undertake Advanced Assessments, which include specific skills assessments. Clients can view each candidate's skill grades on their profile. Advanced-assessed talent has demonstrated skills through rigorous testing, making them a reliable choice for more complex or specialised projects. They are more likely to meet your project's technical needs, often leading to faster hiring decisions due to their proven capabilities.
What are the benefits for talent in completing skills assessments process?
Completing a Skills Assessment increases your visibility to businesses looking for verified professionals. Assessed talent often gets hired faster and has a better chance of securing higher-paying projects because clients trust verified skills. This distinction highlights your expertise and builds credibility on the platform.
How does a 'Full-time Hire' work?
A 'Full-time Hire' is handled by our enterprise offering which allows you to specify your project requirements, including budget, skillset, and industry. We treat every full-time hire as an enterprise deal, meaning only skills-assessed candidates can apply. To enhance the scope of your talent search, we recommend skills assessments, which we can pre-allocate to candidates who meet rigorous vetting criteria. This approach saves you time and ensures you connect with highly qualified specialists who have been thoroughly assessed.
How does ClickTrain ensure the quality of talent beyond verification?
Beyond the initial verification process, ClickTrain uses tools like PPC Listenr to monitor talent's ongoing performance. We also gather feedback from clients and conduct periodic reviews to ensure the professionals on our platform continue to meet high standards. This ongoing quality control ensures you connect with the best talent for your project.
How does ClickTrain actively maintain certification to ensure my talent is doing what they have committed to?
Read more about how we monitor accounts through Listenr.
What happens if I want to change my PPC Specialist after starting a project?
Contact our support team if the specialist you hired is not the right fit. We will help you find a new candidate who better aligns with your needs. Our priority is ensuring a seamless partnership with the right talent.
Can I upgrade my subscription plan if my needs increase?
Yes, you can upgrade your subscription at any time. Contact our support team, and we will help you access additional features that align with your business needs.
How do billing and contract handling work for freelancer specialists?
For all direct engagements, contracts and agreements are handled between the specialist and the customer, and terms negotiated directly. For enterprise deals, ClickTrain manages the contracts and payments, ensuring a streamlined and professional process. If needed, our support team is available to assist with best practices or provide resources like contract templates.
How do billing and contract handling work for full-time specialists?
For all full-time engagements, ClickTrain handles contracts and agreements on our enterprise offering to ensure a streamlined and efficient recruitment process. We manage all aspects of billing and payments, providing peace of mind for both the specialist and the client. Our enterprise-level service includes comprehensive support, such as setting up cross-border hiring agreements, managing payroll if needed, and ensuring adherence to industry standards.
Am I eligible for a refund if I don't receive any inbound leads on the platform?
If you are on a paid subscription and haven't received confirmed bookings or viable leads, please note that refunds are unavailable. Our certification process provides credibility that extends far beyond this platform, enhancing your professional standing and opportunities across the industry. This policy ensures that the value of your certification supports long-term career growth and recognition, regardless of immediate new business.
What is included in the Free Plan?
A Free Profile is designed for Freelancers and Employees. It includes showcasing your availability and skills, improving your profile ranking, and matching to private opportunities. However, the Free Profiles are restricted and do not include additional features like public inbound leads and added-value services.
What is ClickTrain Listenr, and how does it work?
Listenr is a tool included in ClickTrain's plans to help monitor your Google Ads account. It provides essential monitoring to track changes and ensure campaigns are running smoothly. This helps ensure that you or the PPC talent you hire is delivering on their commitments.
What is the added value of skills assessments, and how does it benefit me?
The skills assessments are personalized to evaluate a PPC professional's expertise in specific areas. These assessments, are available individually and included across the packages. Testing and verifying your skills improves your profile ranking on ClickTrain, making it easier for clients to identify you as a qualified expert. It also builds trust with potential clients, increasing your hiring chances.
Testimonials
Hear what others are saying about us
"Lovely team at Click Train who help facilitate relationships with freelance clients. I have gained a new monthly retainer client through them and the whole process has been plain sailing. The skills testing they offer (while it requires a lot of time to undertake) is a great way to validate your knowledge so they can confidently put you in front of clients. Overall really happy with the service and team."
Caitlin Anderson
Freelancer
5.0
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"ClickTrain's insights are incredibly helpful for managing campaigns, especially with their Account Listenr and Insights tool. It's been a game-changer in identifying at-risk accounts while also ensuring staff accountability. From a partnership perspective, our agency has secured a few accounts from our partnership with Clicktrain in less than 2 months. If you're looking for a reliable platform to enhance ad performance and a trustworthy agency partner, I'd highly recommend ClickTrain."
Will King
Founder - Get Moving
5.0
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"The ClickTrain team were seamless in finding matching us with a freelancer, organising interviews and mediating the negotiations between us. This was our first time using a PPC freelancer so we were relatively in the dark about the process but they helped us all the way. Would definitely recommend."
Tom Green
Founder - Verticode
5.0
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"Joining the ClickTrain PPC Talent platform helped me secure the perfect PPC position, and I cannot thank them enough. Everything from onboarding to landing a job with a company that needs your skills is smooth and straightforward. In less than 3 months, they guided me to the perfect PPC role that required my level of expertise and experience. Thank you ClickTrain!"
Slindo Ngubane
Freelancer
5.0
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"ClickTrain matched me with a a perfect client, and were very helpful and hands-on during the lead up to working with them. I strongly recommend ClickTrain to all PPC / performance marketing professionals!"
Chris Johnson
Founder - Harmonic Edge
5.0
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"My time working with ClickTrain had been seamless. From the onboarding to ongoing support. Andrew always finds the time to help with troubleshooting and brainstorming, making it feel like an extension to the team rather than the middleman. My experience has made me positive that there is still much more to come based on the work ethic and the added value!."
Nikita Bramwell
Founder - Bramdt Marketing
5.0
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"Excellent platform and great support. Highly recommend it."
Andy Mills
Head of PPC - Pixated
5.0
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"ClickTrain provided exceptional service by matching key palyers to our project needs. Their team are highly supportive, making the entire process seamless and efficient."
Justin Thomas
Owner - CRKLR
5.0
"Helped me build my client base and introduce me to businesses who needed my expertise. A seamless process!"
Chris Nightingale
Director - Can-Do Digital Marketing Ltd
5.0
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"Historically the team was skilled in SEO and wanted to growth their PPC Capabilities. ClickTrain helped with internal restructuring to cater for a broader PPC offering the goal was to create an integrated approach between SEO and PPC offerings."
Hannah Thrope
Managing Director - Verkeer
5.0
"Andrew (Founder of ClickTrain) knows more about Paid, AI and Technology in this industry than almost anyone else I ve met in the last decade."
Chris Simmance
The Agency Coach - The OMG Center
5.0
"ClickTrain matched us to the right Freelancer and worked with in our budget restraints. As an early stage startup this was crucial to our context."
Chris Ansara
Founder & CEO - Docstribute
5.0
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