Hire the Top Rated Fractional CMO USA

Ross Kernez is a digital marketer, community builder, mentor, and author. He is the founder of NYC-based SEO Meetup, a group of 2900 marketing professionals who meet monthly to network and discuss the latest trends and happenings in the industry.

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Published: 07.11.2024

As a Fractional CMO USA, I leverage over 15 years of proven experience in driving significant business growth through strategic and innovative marketing solutions. My approach is designed to provide small businesses, start-ups, mid-sized and enterprise companies with the leadership and expertise they need, without the long-term commitment or high cost of a full-time executive. I have worked in the digital marketing field as an independent marketing consultant working with enterprise companies and startups—advising on Earned media (SEO, ASO, Content Marketing, Digital PR, Email Marketing, Influencer Marketing, Affiliate Marketing), Paid media (Paid Search, Paid Social, Programmatic, Media Strategy),Creative (Branding & Web design), CRO & UX.

By working with me, you gain access to top-tier marketing leadership and the ability to implement advanced marketing strategies that are tailored to your unique business goals. My expertise covers a wide range of industries, enabling me to bring a fresh, adaptable perspective to each client. From omni channel marketing and brand development to demand generation and go-to-market strategies, I ensure that your business stays ahead of the curve, benefiting from the latest marketing trends and insights. Whether you're looking to enter new markets, boost lead generation, or enhance your overall brand presence, I can help craft and execute a strategic marketing plan that aligns with your business objectives.

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Hire the Top Rated Fractional CMO USA

"If you can work with Ross, make it happen — you won't regret it!"

— Jennifer Anderson

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Unlock your brand's full potential with a top-rated Fractional CMO USA

In today’s fast-paced and competitive market, businesses need expert marketing leadership to stand out and drive growth. But hiring a full-time CMO can be costly and often unnecessary. That’s where a top-rated Fractional CMO comes in—offering the strategic expertise of a chief marketing officer without the overhead of a full-time hire.

As a Fractional CMO, I deliver customized marketing strategies tailored to your business needs. From optimizing your brand positioning to scaling digital marketing efforts, I provide the insights, leadership, and execution needed to achieve measurable results. Whether you're a startup looking to scale or an established company seeking to refine your strategy, I help unlock the true potential of your brand.

With proven success across diverse industries, I bring a fresh perspective and actionable solutions to every challenge. Partner with me, and together we’ll accelerate your business growth while staying agile and cost-effective. Ready to take your marketing to the next level? Let's connect!

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What can I bring to your company when you hire me as Fractional CMO USA?

I find myself in a privileged position through hosting my marketing meetups, where I have access to a wealth of data alongside my fellow members. These gatherings serve as a fertile ground for the exchange of insights and information stemming from diverse industries. My team and I take it upon ourselves to meticulously gather and arrange this data, ensuring that every participant can reap the benefits from a broad pool of knowledge. As we all know, unstructured data holds little to no value, much like unmined gold lying dormant underground, waiting to be discovered and valued..

We delve into this data reservoir, sifting through to find and present the most valuable pieces of information — the golden nuggets that can offer substantial learning experiences to our attendees.

Would you be interested in granting your attendees access to this repository of golden opportunities?

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Experienced Fractional CMO USA

I have worked in numerous large enterprises within the marketing & SEO departments. Taking these businesses up the search engine result pages (SERPS), these roles formed the bases of my experience.

I have also been fortunate enough to advise & consult numerous smaller and medium businesses across a wide array of verticals and this also greatly enhanced my knowledge about the market and of course how to implement a ‘search’ strategy to garner visibility and generate revenue.

Who is Ross Kernez?

With over 15+ years of experience, I specialize in building marketing systems that consistently attract and retain customers. My approach is rooted in meticulous processes, ensuring that every aspect of my work is efficient, scalable, and impactful. From complex tasks like SEO to comprehensive strategies, I design systems that minimize friction and cost while maximizing results.

Ross is deeply involved in the marketing and tech community, mentoring startups at organizations like Techstars and Starta. He is known for his expertise in search engine optimization, digital marketing, and leveraging data analytics for marketing success.

Here’s some feedback from someone who has worked with Ross

We engaged a Fractional CMO for our SaaS startup in the USA, and it was the best decision we made. Our internal marketing efforts were lacking direction, and we didn’t have the budget for a full-time CMO. The Fractional CMO stepped in, created a clear marketing roadmap, and helped us execute digital campaigns that drove real results. Within a few months, we saw a major increase in our lead generation and conversions. The expertise and strategic insight we gained were invaluable, and the flexible nature of the arrangement made it affordable. I highly recommend this option for any growing business looking for senior marketing leadership without the full-time cost.

— Sed E.

As a mid-sized manufacturing company in the USA, we were struggling to find the right person to lead our marketing. Hiring a Fractional CMO was the perfect solution. Our CMO brought a wealth of experience and immediately pinpointed areas where our marketing was falling short. They led a complete overhaul of our digital presence, improved our brand messaging, and introduced new tactics for customer acquisition. The best part was the flexibility — we only paid for the time we needed. Our business is now in a much stronger position, and our marketing has never been more efficient.

— Roman A.

Our e-commerce company in the USA was in need of high-level marketing guidance, but we couldn’t justify the cost of a full-time CMO. We opted for a Fractional CMO, and the results were outstanding. They completely revamped our content strategy, optimized our paid ads, and helped us expand into new markets. Not only did they bring fresh ideas, but they also provided hands-on leadership to our existing marketing team. The increase in our revenue and brand visibility was almost immediate. For any business looking to grow without the overhead of a full-time hire, a Fractional CMO is the way to go.

— Fell S.

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My Process

Let's Collaborate

1. Describe your project

2.Schedule a Call

3. Develop Strategic High Level Plan

4. Accountability on both sides

What should you expect from your Fractional CMO USA

When working with a fractional CMO in Austin, you can expect a professional who brings not only extensive marketing expertise but also a deep understanding of the local business landscape and Austin’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Given that Austin is known for its vibrant tech community and startup culture, your fractional CMO will likely have experience working with both emerging companies and more established brands. They will be adept at creating marketing strategies that resonate with the city’s diverse and growing population, as well as positioning your company in an increasingly competitive market.

Your fractional CMO will focus on building and refining your brand’s messaging to make sure it aligns with your company’s goals and resonates with your target audience. In a city like Austin, where innovation is key, they’ll look to foster a cutting-edge, tech-forward approach to marketing, incorporating digital strategies, influencer collaborations, and data-driven insights. Given the fast-paced and constantly evolving nature of Austin’s business scene, expect your fractional CMO to emphasize agility in their approach, quickly adjusting campaigns based on performance metrics and industry trends.

Additionally, since they are fractional and not full-time, their work will be focused and goal-oriented. You can expect them to prioritize key initiatives that drive the most impact, whether that means boosting brand awareness, growing market share, or refining product positioning. They will likely also leverage their local network to build partnerships, identify growth opportunities, and connect with influential voices within Austin’s business community, providing you with valuable exposure.

Ultimately, a fractional CMO in Austin will help your company grow strategically, optimizing your marketing efforts without the overhead of a full-time hire, while bringing a uniquely Austin-centric perspective that taps into the city’s culture of innovation and growth.

Topics that I can cover

Programmatic Marketing

Growth Marketing

Paid Search Marketing

Paid Social Marketing

Marketing Strategy

Digital PR

SEO Marketing

Social Media Marketing

FAQs

What is a Fractional CMO?

A Fractional Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) is a highly experienced marketing leader who works with businesses on a part-time or contract basis. Instead of hiring a full-time CMO, companies opt for a Fractional CMO to provide strategic marketing leadership without the costs or long-term commitment associated with a permanent position. Fractional CMOs offer the same expertise and strategic insight that a full-time CMO brings to the table, but they are more flexible, scalable, and cost-effective.

Fractional CMOs are skilled in developing and executing marketing strategies, leading marketing teams, managing budgets, and helping companies achieve growth. They bring their knowledge from working across various industries, making them adept at tackling diverse marketing challenges. The Fractional CMO model allows companies to benefit from senior marketing leadership while maintaining flexibility in terms of workload, duration, and scope of work.

How does a Fractional CMO work with businesses in the USA?

A Fractional CMO typically starts by conducting a thorough assessment of a company’s existing marketing efforts. This evaluation may include an audit of digital marketing strategies, an analysis of customer acquisition processes, and a review of brand positioning. Once the assessment is complete, the Fractional CMO works with the leadership team to create a tailored marketing strategy that addresses the company’s specific goals and challenges.

In practice, a Fractional CMO operates as an integral part of the business, attending key meetings, advising on marketing decisions, and overseeing the execution of marketing campaigns. They work closely with in-house marketing teams, external agencies, or both, providing guidance and leadership to ensure that the company’s marketing efforts align with its overall business objectives. Fractional CMOs are typically involved in areas such as digital marketing, branding, content strategy, and demand generation, depending on the needs of the business.

For companies in the USA, Fractional CMOs offer the flexibility to work on short-term projects or provide ongoing strategic guidance. They can manage everything from large-scale product launches to daily marketing operations, giving companies access to high-level marketing expertise without committing to a full-time executive.

Why would a business in the USA hire a Fractional CMO?

Many businesses in the USA, especially those in growth phases, recognize the need for senior-level marketing leadership but may not have the budget or resources to hire a full-time CMO. A Fractional CMO provides a cost-effective solution for accessing top-tier marketing talent on a flexible basis. Whether a company needs strategic guidance for a specific project, such as a product launch or market expansion, or long-term support to drive revenue growth, a Fractional CMO offers the right balance of expertise and flexibility.

Startups and small to mid-sized businesses often lack the marketing leadership required to scale effectively. A Fractional CMO can step in to provide this leadership, offering experience in key areas such as digital marketing, brand development, and customer acquisition. For larger organizations, a Fractional CMO can provide specialized expertise or fill in during periods of transition, such as when a full-time CMO is on leave or when the company is in the process of restructuring.

Hiring a Fractional CMO also allows businesses to bring in a fresh perspective. Because Fractional CMOs typically work with multiple companies across different industries, they bring a broad range of insights and best practices that can help drive innovation and improve marketing performance.

What types of businesses benefit from hiring a Fractional CMO in the USA?

A wide variety of businesses across industries can benefit from hiring a Fractional CMO. Small to mid-sized companies, in particular, often lack the resources to hire a full-time CMO but still require senior-level marketing leadership to grow. This includes startups, especially those in the tech, healthcare, and consumer goods sectors, which need to establish brand recognition, acquire customers, and scale their operations.

Growing businesses in industries such as e-commerce, real estate, professional services, and SaaS can also benefit from a Fractional CMO’s ability to develop and execute a comprehensive marketing strategy. In these cases, a Fractional CMO helps improve lead generation, refine brand messaging, and optimize digital marketing efforts, all while staying within a budget that wouldn’t accommodate a full-time executive.

Even larger companies, particularly those undergoing a transition such as a rebrand, merger, or acquisition, often hire Fractional CMOs. These businesses may already have a strong marketing department but need specialized leadership during critical phases. A Fractional CMO can provide the strategic guidance and oversight required to ensure that the company navigates these changes successfully.

How much does it cost to hire a Fractional CMO in the USA?

The cost of hiring a Fractional CMO in the USA can vary significantly depending on the scope of work, the duration of the engagement, and the level of expertise required. Typically, Fractional CMOs charge either on a retainer basis or an hourly rate. Monthly retainers can range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the complexity of the company’s marketing needs and the extent of the CMO’s involvement. Hourly rates for a Fractional CMO generally fall between $200 and $500, though this can vary based on their experience and the specifics of the project.

While the cost of a Fractional CMO may seem high, it is considerably lower than hiring a full-time CMO, whose salary, benefits, and bonuses can easily surpass six figures annually. By hiring a Fractional CMO, businesses can access high-level marketing leadership without the long-term financial commitment. This makes Fractional CMOs an attractive option for companies looking to optimize their marketing spend while still benefiting from the expertise of a senior marketing executive.

The investment in a Fractional CMO often pays off quickly as they help improve marketing efficiency, increase customer acquisition, and enhance brand positioning, leading to greater revenue growth.

How long does a Fractional CMO typically work with a business?

The duration of a Fractional CMO’s engagement with a business can vary depending on the company’s needs and goals. Some businesses may only require a Fractional CMO for a short-term project, such as a product launch, rebranding effort, or marketing audit. In these cases, the engagement might last anywhere from a few months to six months. Other companies may require ongoing support, especially if they are in a growth phase or undergoing a significant transition. These engagements can last a year or longer.

For many businesses in the USA, a six-month to one-year engagement with a Fractional CMO is common. This time frame allows the CMO to assess the company’s marketing needs, develop a strategy, implement the necessary initiatives, and track progress over time. The advantage of working with a Fractional CMO is that the engagement can be scaled up or down based on the company’s evolving needs. Businesses have the flexibility to adjust the scope and duration of the engagement, ensuring that they get the right level of support when they need it.

Some companies may choose to keep a Fractional CMO on retainer for extended periods, particularly if they need continuous strategic oversight but are not yet ready to commit to a full-time executive.

What are the responsibilities of a Fractional CMO in the USA?

A Fractional CMO is responsible for overseeing all aspects of a company’s marketing efforts. This includes developing a comprehensive marketing strategy that aligns with the company’s goals and driving the execution of that strategy across various channels. The CMO will typically manage key areas such as digital marketing, content strategy, brand development, customer acquisition, and lead generation.

Fractional CMOs often lead marketing teams, whether internal or external, and provide mentorship and leadership to ensure that all marketing initiatives are aligned with the company’s strategic vision. They also collaborate with other members of the executive team to ensure that marketing efforts are integrated with the broader business strategy. A key aspect of their role is to analyze performance metrics and adjust marketing strategies based on data-driven insights.

In addition to strategic oversight, a Fractional CMO may be involved in specific marketing initiatives, such as product launches, rebranding efforts, or the implementation of new digital marketing technologies. They help companies optimize their marketing spend by identifying the most effective channels and tactics, ensuring that marketing budgets are used efficiently.

For businesses in the USA, the role of a Fractional CMO often extends beyond just marketing strategy; they serve as a trusted advisor, helping to guide the company’s overall growth efforts through innovative and customer-focused marketing initiatives.

What are the benefits of hiring a Fractional CMO over a full-time CMO?

One of the main benefits of hiring a Fractional CMO instead of a full-time CMO is cost savings. A full-time CMO’s salary, combined with benefits, bonuses, and other perks, can be a significant financial burden for many businesses, especially small to mid-sized companies. A Fractional CMO offers the same level of expertise but at a fraction of the cost. Businesses only pay for the time and services they need, making it a much more cost-effective solution.

Flexibility is another major advantage. A Fractional CMO provides businesses with the ability to scale their marketing leadership based on current needs. Whether it’s a short-term project or long-term guidance, companies can adjust the scope of the engagement to suit their marketing objectives. This flexibility allows businesses to get the strategic oversight they need without committing to a long-term hire.

In addition to cost savings and flexibility, a Fractional CMO brings a fresh perspective. Since Fractional CMOs work with multiple clients across different industries, they bring a wealth of diverse experience and insights to the table. This broad experience allows them to identify new opportunities and apply best practices that might not be evident to internal teams.

For companies in the USA, particularly those in highly competitive industries, hiring a Fractional CMO can provide the expertise and leadership needed to drive marketing success without the financial and logistical challenges of hiring a full-time executive.

Can a Fractional CMO help with digital marketing in the USA?

Yes, most Fractional CMOs are well-versed in digital marketing and can provide valuable expertise in this area. Digital marketing is a critical component of most companies’ marketing strategies today, and a Fractional CMO can help businesses navigate the complexities of online marketing, from SEO and social media to email marketing and paid advertising.

Fractional CMOs are typically familiar with a wide range of digital marketing tools and platforms, including Google Analytics, HubSpot, and social media management tools, among others. They can help businesses in the USA optimize their digital marketing strategies by implementing best practices, tracking performance metrics, and making data-driven decisions to improve results.

A Fractional CMO’s experience with digital marketing allows them to guide businesses through the process of digital transformation, ensuring that they remain competitive in an increasingly online marketplace.

How does a Fractional CMO measure success?

A Fractional CMO measures success by tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) that align with the company’s goals. These KPIs could include metrics such as revenue growth, customer acquisition, lead generation, website traffic, and return on investment (ROI) from marketing campaigns.

At the outset of the engagement, the Fractional CMO will work with the leadership team to define specific objectives and metrics that will be used to measure success. They will then develop a marketing strategy designed to achieve these objectives and regularly track performance to ensure that the company is on track to meet its goals.

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Hire the Top Rated Fractional CMO USA

Hire the Top Rated Fractional CMO USA