To everyone’s understanding, many businesses struggle to implement effective marketing strategies and see an ROI for their efforts. This is especially true for startups; however, businesses of all sizes struggle to hold down the marketing fort while focusing on growing their products or services.
The (perceived) solution: Staying on top of current marketing strategies, trends, and best practices. Easier said than done, right?
Enter the real, attainable and cost effective solution: fractional CMO companies. These are experienced marketers who specialize in project-based and part-time work. So, if your company doesn’t have the resources to invest in a full-time chief marketing officer, you can easily take advantage of the skills of CMOs without the full-time cost of an executive team.
So, what is a Fractional CMO?
A Fractional Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) is a highly experienced marketing leader who provides strategic marketing advisory to typically startups on a part-time, contract, or project basis. This model allows startups to leverage the expertise and insights of a seasoned CMO without the full-time executive cost. They are particularly beneficial for startups and scale-ups that need executive-level marketing leadership but are not yet ready to bear the expense of a full-time position.
What to Look for When Hiring a Fractional CMO?
When searching for a fractional CMO, consider the following key attributes to ensure they can make a significant impact on your business:
- Proven Track Record: Look for a marketing leader with a solid history of success in various industries similar to yours. Specific results, case studies, and testimonials can be indicative of their expertise and ability to drive growth.
- Strategic Thinker: A great fractional CMO should not just be about tactics but also possess a strong strategic vision. They should be able to develop a comprehensive marketing strategy that aligns with your business goals.
- Adaptability: Given the nature of their role, they should be able to quickly understand your business model, market challenges, and adapt strategies accordingly.
- Leadership Skills: They must possess the ability to lead and inspire your marketing team, fostering a culture of innovation and accountability.
- Communication: Excellent communication skills are critical, as they will need to articulate the vision, strategy, and value of marketing efforts across different departments and stakeholders.
- Up-to-date Knowledge: The marketing landscape is constantly evolving. Ensure your fractional CMO stays abreast of the latest trends, tools, and technologies that could benefit your business.
- Availability: Discuss the fractional CMO’s availability and ensure they can dedicate sufficient time to your startups’ needs. Establish clear expectations for communication and deliverables.
How much Do Fractional CMOs charge?
Fractional CMOs are just outside experienced consultants or agencies with executional capabilities. They are typically paid in two ways:
- Advisory shares: ranging anywhere from 0.25% – 1.5% depending on the stage of the startup, the level of commitment and the impact and experience the Fractional CMO brings to table.
- Hourly rate / retainer: Fractional CMO can have a dedicated number of hours each week to do a specific set of services. The hourly rate for a fractional CMO can range anywhere from $50 – $1,000 depending on the market, the stage of growth and level of expertise.
We’ve gone above and beyond to search for the best fractional CMO companies. So, if you’re considering outsourcing, our comprehensive list is the best place to start.
We’ll be covering:
Top 10 Fractional CMO Companies
1. NoGood
Description: NoGood is an early pioneer to the fractional CMO service model. With a food in venture and another in scale ups, they were able to advise many category defining brands on how to scale their marketing organizations. NoGood takes pride on being more than just a digital marketing agency – They are integral part of the client team. Their secret to success lies in providing immediate access to seasoned senior marketing leadership, all at a fraction of the cost of hiring a full-time CMO.
With over 100M in spending learnings under their belt, their fractional CMOs seamlessly integrate into your growth squad, bringing invaluable expertise to the table. But they are not just orchestrators – they are doers. they execute strategies that not only meet your KPIs but exceed them.
At NoGood, we consider ourselves more than just a service provider – we’re an extension of your team, dedicated to your success.
Office Location: New York (HQ)
Year Founded: 2017
Team Size: 50+ employees
Key Services: Fractional CMO, GTM Strategy, Search Engine Optimization, Product Led Growth, Channel Strategy, Growth Marketing Audit, Martech Advisory, Generative AI Transformation
Industries Served: SaaS, Healthcare, Fintech, B2B, Consumer, Crypto
Case studies: View all case studies.
2. Authentic Brand
Description: Authentic Brand is a nationally renowned fractional CMO firm, recognized as a pioneer in the industry and setting the standard for fractional CMO excellence.
At Authentic Brand, CMOs go beyond mere consultation. They seamlessly integrate into clients’ businesses, functioning as integral members of their leadership teams. With sleeves rolled up, they actively contribute to building high-performing marketing programs and teams.
Every client engagement at Authentic Brand is marked by thoughtful curation, ensuring the perfect fit with a CMO tailored to their specific needs.
Office Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota
Year Founded: 2017
Team Size: 11-50 employees
Key Services: Fractional CMO, PPC Advertising, Creative Engagement Strategies, Analytical Skills, Marketing Communications, Branding Efforts, Social Media Marketing, Content Marketing
Industries Served: Financial Services, SaaS
Case studies: View all case studies.
3. Digital Authority Partners
Description: Digital Authority Partners is a leading force in digital marketing, committed to aiding companies in their journey to launch, grow, and scale through data-driven strategies that leave a lasting impact. With a team of seasoned marketers, they bring a wealth of experience and a track record of delivering exceptional results.
From crafting comprehensive go-to-market strategies to enhancing organic search rankings, generating leads via paid media, and spearheading next-generation content strategies, they’re equipped to drive businesses forward.
Known for their punctuality and efficiency, they meet deadlines and consistently surpass them, ensuring that clients see tangible results within their designated timeframes and budgets.
Their outstanding work has earned them numerous accolades and awards, from being featured in the Inc. 5,000 fastest-growing companies list to receiving recognition from Clutch and WebAwards. This recognition underscores their unwavering commitment to excellence.
Office Location: Chicago, Illinois
Year Founded: 2016
Team Size: 11-50 employees
Key Services: Search Engine Optimization, Branding Strategy, PPC Management, Digital Marketing Strategy, Fractional CMO, Analytical Skills, Email Marketing Services
Industries Served: SaaS, Healthcare, Legal, Fintech, Manufacturing
Case studies: View all case studies.
4. Marketri
Description: Marketri is a trusted partner for growth-minded CEOs grappling with the complexities of modern marketing. In today’s intricate B2B buying landscape, even seasoned professionals are challenged by marketing complexities.
Marketri steps in to alleviate the marketing burden from executive teams, allowing them to focus on their core strengths while Marketri handles the rest.
If you aim for predictable, profitable growth but find your current marketing efforts falling short, Marketri is here to help. Whether you’ve relied on individual rainmakers, in-person events for lead generation, or once-held geographic or competitive advantages that have dwindled, Marketri is designed to address these marketing challenges head-on.
Marketri revolves around three critical marketing success factors tailored to assist high-growth companies in achieving their strategic objectives. With a team of seasoned marketing strategists and tactical experts, Marketri leverages these advantages to propel clients confidently toward their growth targets and ensure a high return on investment (ROI) for their marketing expenditure.
Office Location: Philadelphia, PA
Year Founded: 2004
Team Size: 11-50 employees
Key Services: Fractional CMO, Fractional CGO, Comprehensive Marketing Plan Development, Outsourced Marketing Strategy Services, Business Consulting Services
Industries Served: Financial Services, Technology, SaaS, Manufacturing
Case studies: N/A
5. The Marketing Blender
Description: The Marketing Blender is a team comprising experienced CMOs and marketing specialists dedicated to accelerating revenue for B2B organizations. Committed to Creating a Business World of Meaning, Connection, and Prosperity for All, they offer innovative solutions to drive growth and positively impact the business landscape.
Operating beyond the confines of traditional marketing agencies, The Marketing Blender emphasizes true alignment between marketing and sales. Through fractional CMOs, they provide executive leadership and strategic direction, enabling clients to establish systems for predictable and sustainable growth. Additionally, their outsourced teams offer fractional marketing expertise, seamlessly integrating creative and digital specialists into clients’ operations as needed.
With a belief in the transformative power of marketing, Marketing Blender partners with B2B companies to help them build scalable growth engines and achieve their full potential. They prioritize collaboration with organizations that prioritize their people, customers, and communities, using marketing to amplify their influence and impact.
Office Location: Fort Worth, TX
Year Founded: 2013
Team Size: 11-50 employees
Key Services: Fractional CMO & Marketing, Branding Services, Digital Marketing Consultants, Social Media Marketing, Conversion Rate Optimization, Email Marketing Services, Search Engine Optimization Services
Industries Served: B2B, Software
Case studies: View all case studies.
6. CMOvate
Description: CMOvate is a comprehensive B2B marketing and growth solution. With a wealth of hands-on experience spanning various industries, including startups, major corporations, industrial businesses, and service providers, CMOvate brings more than just strategic insight.
CMOvate is committed to advising and actively immersing themselves as an integrated part of your team, driving tangible and measurable results.
With CMOvate, clients navigate the intricacies of modern marketing and sales, crafting actionable strategies, refining operations, and charting a clear path to sustainable growth. Services at CMOvate are meticulously tailored to meet each client’s unique needs, ranging from Strategic Planning to LinkedIn Branding Awareness and beyond.
Office Location: Israel
Year Founded: 2020
Team Size: 1-10 employees
Key Services: Fractional CMO, Content Strategies, Marketing Consulting Services, Strategic Guidance, Search Engine Optimization Services, Ad Campaign Planning
Industries Served: N/A
Case studies: N/A
7. Imprint Digital
Description: Imprint Digital is a highly sought-after expert in marketing. They are known for their proactive approach to taking businesses’ marketing endeavors by the horns and driving them forward. Clients benefit from experienced and competent marketing direction without the burden of maintaining in-house infrastructure.
With an all-American team of marketers, Imprint Digital offers unparalleled expertise across various domains. Imagine hiring someone capable of serving as a Chief Marketing Officer in nearly any organization, backed by a team of top-tier marketing professionals. From skilled copywriters and SEO specialists to adept Ads Managers, Social Media Managers, Graphic Designers, Web Developers, and Email Marketing Managers, Imprint Digital ensures clients receive the expertise they need at a fraction of the cost.
Their approach’s core is an entrepreneurial mindset, reflected in their team’s hand-selected composition. Each member brings extensive experience, having worked with hundreds of businesses, enabling them to empathize with clients’ challenges and meet them exactly where they are.
Office Location: Loveland, Colorado
Year Founded: 2021
Team Size: 11-50 employees
Key Services: Fractional CMO, Paid Ads, Branding Services, Website Maintenance, Email Marketing Services, Search Engine Optimization Services, Bitcoin
Industries Served: N/A
Case studies: View all case studies.
8. PrudentPedal
Description: PrudentPedal is the go-to partner for B2B service-based firms seeking to differentiate themselves. For managing partners and practice leaders looking to carve out their niche, punch above their weight, and adopt an offensive rather than defensive stance, PrudentPedal offers the expertise and guidance they need.
In a landscape where sophistication is key, PrudentPedal provides the marketing leadership, strategy, and processes necessary for B2B service-based firms to assert dominance in their respective markets. These clients operate in environments characterized by complex buying cycles, competitive markets, and dynamic demands.
At PrudentPedal, firm leaders find the guidance they seek and demand prudent, proven solutions that significantly increase revenue and allow them to define the market on their terms. With a focus on raising revenue and market visibility, PrudentPedal empowers B2B service-based firms to thrive in competitive and dynamic environments.
Office Location: Chicago, IL
Year Founded: 2012
Team Size: 2-10 employees
Key Services: Fractional CMO & Marketing, Comprehensive Marketing Strategy, Coaching, Branding Strategy, Strategic, Sales-Aligned Marketing Teams
Industries Served: N/A
Case studies: N/A
9. Moving Minds
Description: Introducing Moving Minds: Growth as a Managed Service. This cross-functional team of Mar+Tech experts encompasses brand builders, growth hackers, CMO-level strategists, data scientists, digital marketing gurus, designers, developers, and business process consultants.
At Moving Minds, they serve as a single source for driving multi-channel marketing and tech campaigns, programs, and marketing initiatives. By consolidating disparate marketing agencies, contractors, and freelancers into one dedicated team, they eliminate inefficient silos and ensure accountability for driving results across all Marketing+Tech channels.
From strategy to execution, Moving Minds provides dedicated, on-demand Mar+Tech talent to support your mission-critical growth initiatives and revenue attainment goals quickly and precisely. Their teams are tailored to meet your specific needs, whether you require a single marketing expert or a comprehensive multi-channel marketing solution.
Furthermore, Moving Minds offers access to their Mar+Tech stack, allowing you to “plug and play” into a suite of best-of-breed SaaS software solutions. By collapsing the time required to identify, evaluate, and implement these tools, you can accelerate growth, enhance marketing and sales performance, and automate business processes effectively.
Office Location: West Palm Beach, Florida
Year Founded: 2006
Team Size: 11-50 employees
Key Services: Creative Engagement Strategies, Branding Services, Marketing Channel Campaigns, Content Marketing Services, GTM Strategies, Content Optimization
Industries Served: Healthcare, Tech
Case studies: View all case studies.
10. Chief Outsiders
Description: Chief Outsiders, the nation’s premier Executives-as-a-Service firm, specializes in helping CEOs and their organizations pinpoint the fractional marketing and sales executives required to propel growth. With a cohesive team of over 125 fractional executives, they operate as Strategic Operators to deliver tangible results. Blending insight, strategy, and execution, they craft revenue engines that foster sustained, profitable growth for businesses.
At Chief Outsiders, fractional executives drive growth strategy and execution plans, offering immediate access to talent through highly customized and flexible engagements. Having served on the executive teams of more than 1,550 client companies, each Chief Marketing Officer and Chief Sales Officer boasts a wealth of experience leading marketing or sales efforts at diverse corporations, including numerous Fortune 500 firms.
Recognized by Inc. Magazine for nine consecutive years as one of the 5,000 fastest-growing privately held companies in the US, Chief Outsiders is renowned for its expertise, reliability, and commitment to delivering exceptional client results.
Office Location: Houston, TX
Year Founded: 2009
Team Size: 51-200 employees
Key Services: Fractional CMO & Marketing, Impactful Marketing Strategies, Digital Marketing Consultants, Branding Services, Sales Team, Enterprise Services, Marketing Coaching
Industries Served: SaaS, Technology, Healthcare
Case studies: View all case studies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Fractional CMO Be as Effective as a Full-Time CMO?
Yes, a Fractional CMO can be as effective as a Full-Time CMO. Fractional CMOs bring specialized expertise, strategic guidance, and flexible arrangements, often at a lower cost. They can quickly assess needs and implement targeted digital strategies, leading to measurable results. However, effectiveness may vary based on the specific needs and scope of the company’s marketing efforts.
What are Examples of Fractional CMO Services?
- Fractional CMO services provide part-time or temporary marketing leadership.
- They offer strategic marketing guidance and expertise without the commitment of a full-time hire.
- Fractional CMOs assist in developing marketing strategies and overseeing marketing operations.
- They may focus on specific areas such as branding strategy, digital marketing, or market research.
- These flexible services allow companies to adjust the scope and duration based on their needs.
- Fractional CMOs can help startups, small businesses, or companies with marketing budget constraints access high-level marketing expertise.
Benefits of Hiring a Fractional CMO for a Company
- Cost Savings: Fractional CMOs typically charge less than full-time CMOs, reducing overhead expenses for the company.
- Flexibility: Companies can adjust the scope and duration of professional services based on their evolving needs without the commitment of a full-time hire.
- Specialized expertise: Fractional CMOs often bring niche, critical skills, and diverse industry experience, providing valuable insights and strategic guidance.
- Immediate impact: Fractional CMOs can quickly assess marketing goals and needs and implement targeted growth strategies, leading to faster results and ROI.
- Scalability: Companies can scale up or down their marketing efforts as needed by leveraging the services of a fractional CMO.
- Objective perspective: Fractional CMOs offer an external viewpoint, bringing unbiased insights and fresh ideas to the company’s marketing strategy.
- Access to networks: Fractional CMOs typically have extensive networks of industry contacts, which can be leveraged for partnerships, collaborations, and new opportunities.
Should I Hire a Fractional CMO?
Hiring a fractional CMO is a highly strategic decision for most brands, especially for those looking to scale their marketing efforts in a sustainable and cost-effective way. Here is when to consider hiring a fractional CMO:
- Your Brand is at a Growth Inflection Point: You’re ready to scale, but lack the strategic marketing direction to do so effectively.
- Need for Executive Marketing Leadership: Your current team is great at execution but lacks strategic direction.
- Budget Constraints: The budget doesn’t stretch to a full-time CMO, but you need the strategic insight of one.
- Experienced outside advisor: You value an external perspective to challenge the status quo and bring in fresh ideas.
- Market Adaptation: Rapidly changing market conditions require agile marketing strategies that an experienced CMO can provide.
In essence, if your business seeks to harness strategic marketing leadership to drive growth without committing to a full-time executive salary, a fractional CMO could be an ideal solution.
