FAQs

1. What is a Fractional CMO?

   A Fractional CMO (Chief Marketing Officer) is essentially a seasoned marketing executive you hire on a part-time, contractual basis. They bring senior-level marketing leadership – strategy, vision and expertise – without the cost of a full-time executive. In practice, a Fractional CMO works with you flexibly (often 1–3 days per week) to drive growth, build your marketing strategy, and guide your team, all without the overhead of a full-time CMO. Think of it as getting a top marketing leader on-demand, tailored to your startup’s stage and needs.

2. How is a Fractional CMO different from a marketing consultant?

   Unlike a one-time consultant who simply hands you a report of suggestions, I become part of your leadership team. I not only advise but also guide day-to-day decisions and execution. In other words, consultants typically work outside, offering audits and recommendations; while I integrate myself into your company, set strategy, steer your marketing efforts and take accountability for outcomes. Agencies and contractors can execute tactics (ads, SEO, campaigns, etc.), but without a CMO to tie them together, those efforts can lack cohesion. In contrast, I provide the high-level vision that ensures every marketing activity aligns with your business goals.

3. Who typically hires a Fractional CMO?
   Growing startups and small businesses. These are companies with some traction and budget, but without the means (or need) for a full-time CMO. For example:

   • Startups/Scale-ups on tight budgets – They need C-level marketing direction but can’t afford a six-figure full-time hire. I lock in product-market fit and growth channels quickly, without breaking the bank.

   • Companies launching new products or entering new markets – When you need an airtight go-to-market plan, I provides expert guidance on product launches, fundraising prep or market entry strategies.

   • In-house teams missing senior leadership – Maybe you have marketers doing leadership, strategy and execution, but in reality no one person can do all 3. In these cases, I step in to provide direction, processes and accountability for your existing team.

4. How long does a Fractional CMO engagement last?
   That depends on your needs. These engagements are highly flexible. They can be anywhere from 3 months to a year, depending on your specific needs.

   • Short-term (3 months) – Focused work like a product launch or rebrand. You hire for the duration of that initiative.

   • Medium-to-long-term (6+months) – Continual, part-time leadership/advisory (e.g. 1–2 days per week) to steer marketing and teams as you grow.

   Most startups start with an initial 3–6 month commitment. This gives me time to learn your business, build strategy, and start delivering results. After that, you can extend, scale up or step back as needed.

5. Will a Fractional CMO replace my current marketing team?
   No. A Fractional CMO works alongside your team — providing leadership, direction, and accountability — so they can perform at their best and deliver stronger results. They set up structures and processes, give feedback and ensure everyone is aligned and working toward the same goals.

6. How much does a Fractional CMO cost?
   Pricing varies based by experience and scope, but Fractional CMO services generally cost much less than a full-time executive salary, with monthly retainers often ranging from $8,000 to $15,000. While a full-time CMO might earn $200K–$350K/year (plus benefits), a Fractional CMOs is dramatically less than a full-time CMO’s salary. Ultimately, you’re paying for results and leadership, and you decide the time commitment.

7. Can’t I just hire a marketing agency instead?
   Agencies can be great for executing campaigns, but they often focus on tactics, not long-term strategy. Without a CMO at the helm, marketing efforts can become scattered, diluting the impact for your company. I ensures your marketing is driven by a cohesive plan, oversee agency work and Imakes sure every dollar spent is tied to your growth goals.

8. What if I only need help for a short-term project?
   If you have a defined need — like a product launch, fundraising prep or market entry — a shorter engagement such as my Go-to-Market Intensive may be the best fit. I can tailor the scope and duration to match your priorities.

9. How quickly will I see results?
   You’ll usually notice some quick improvements early on, but sustainable growth takes time. In the first month or two, I will clarify your marketing priorities, fix process gaps and deliver “quick wins” (for example, better messaging or optimized ad spend) The goal is to build a strategy and systems that deliver consistent, compounding results over time.