What is a Fractional CMO?

A fractional CMO is an outsourced, part-time Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) who is responsible for leading the marketing strategy and managing the marketing department of a company.

They typically work with businesses that require the expertise and leadership of a CMO but do not have the need or resources for a full-time position at that point. This can be for financial reasons, as a full-time CMO salary can often exceed well over £100k per year (plus bonuses, share options and benefits on top), or because the amount of work required does not justify a full-time head.

In need of marketing experience and expertise

There comes a point in most businesses’ evolution when they realise that they need an expert marketing leader to effectively build their brand, drive demand and scale growth. Yet, lacking the resources for another senior hire, many turn to a more junior employee who has some marketing experience to handle CMO tasks, but this person likely doesn’t possess the executive background necessary to effectively lead a marketing team and create strategy for the business. It’s a false economy which invariably results in lost time and opportunity.

Biting the bullet though and hiring a senior, experienced CMO is costly, time-consuming (many will be on a lengthy notice period) and potentially risky if they prove not to be a good fit.

But there is another route…

Fractional CMOs offer businesses high-calibre expert marketing leadership, with the flexibility to dial costs up or down, and without the ongoing commitment of a full-time employee. This can be especially beneficial for businesses that are looking to maintain a lean structure and cut down on unnecessary expenses - particularly relevant in the face of the pending economic downturn and associated challenges.

Effective Fractional CMOs possess years of experience in leading marketing teams and delivering marketing strategies. They can provide the expertise and skills to help organisations successfully navigate the constantly evolving world of marketing and reach their business goals.