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Ross Kernez | Consulting

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Fractional CMO Chicago

As your Fractional Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), I bring over 15 years of proven expertise in driving business growth through innovative and strategic marketing initiatives. Whether you’re a small business, start-up, or mid-sized company, my services are tailored to meet your unique needs without the commitment and cost of a full-time executive.Gain access to top-tier marketing leadership without the overhead of a full-time hire. My extensive experience spans various industries, ensuring your business benefits from the latest marketing trends and strategies.

Working with a Chicago-based Fractional Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) provides businesses in the area access to experienced, high-level marketing leadership tailored to their specific needs. Chicago is a diverse, dynamic business hub with a mix of industries such as technology, finance, healthcare, retail, and manufacturing. A Fractional CMO based in Chicago understands the local market dynamics while bringing the expertise necessary to address broader regional, national, or even global growth opportunities.

Our services
  • Brand Markting
  • Marketing Strategy 
  • Content Marketing
  • SEO Marketing
  • Programmatic Marketing
  • Fractional CMO
  • Paid Search Marketing
  • Email Marketing
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"If you can work with Ross, make it happen — you won't regret it!"
— Jennifer Anderson
Our Reviews
Our company in Chicago was struggling to get our marketing efforts off the ground, and hiring a Fractional CMO was exactly what we needed. They came in with a clear strategy, took charge of our digital marketing campaigns, and aligned our branding with the growth we were looking to achieve. In just a few months, we saw a significant boost in lead generation and customer engagement. The flexibility of working with a Fractional CMO was a perfect fit for our needs, and the expertise they brought to the table was invaluable. We couldn’t be happier with the results, and our marketing efforts are finally on the right track.
— Sed E.
Hiring a Fractional CMO was a smart move for our Chicago-based tech startup. We weren’t ready for a full-time CMO, but we needed someone who could provide executive-level marketing guidance. The Fractional CMO we hired was hands-on from day one, helping us define our brand message and improve our digital marketing strategy. Their ability to lead the team while working within our budget was impressive, and their experience in the Chicago market gave us a competitive edge. While they weren’t full-time, it never felt like they were missing, and we got the results we were aiming for. The only downside was limited availability during some peak times, but overall, we’re incredibly satisfied.

— Roman A.
Our Chicago company was looking for a strategic marketing leader, and the Fractional CMO model was exactly what we needed. They brought extensive experience and helped us refine our marketing strategy, leading to significant improvements in both brand visibility and customer acquisition. Their knowledge of the Chicago market was a huge advantage, and they helped us build a more targeted approach to reaching our audience. We especially appreciated their ability to work within our existing team and maximize the resources we had. The results have been excellent, and we are on track for continued growth thanks to their leadership. Highly recommend for any business looking to up their marketing game.

— Fell S.
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    FAQs

    What is a Fractional CMO?

    A Fractional CMO is a part-time or contract-based Chief Marketing Officer who provides strategic marketing leadership to companies that need high-level expertise but don’t require a full-time marketing executive. Instead of hiring a full-time CMO, businesses in Chicago can engage a Fractional CMO to work on specific projects, help during periods of growth, or offer ongoing strategic guidance while keeping costs down. This flexible model allows companies to benefit from the expertise of an experienced marketing executive who can develop and execute marketing strategies, manage teams, and drive growth without the financial burden associated with a permanent hire.

    In Chicago, where competition across various industries is fierce, businesses often turn to Fractional CMOs to help them stay competitive and navigate the complex landscape of marketing. Whether it’s improving digital marketing efforts, launching a new product, or breaking into new markets, a Fractional CMO offers the strategic insights needed to ensure success. This role is particularly valuable for companies in industries like technology, healthcare, financial services, and retail, where expert marketing leadership can make a significant impact on business outcomes.

    Why should businesses in Chicago consider hiring a Fractional CMO?

    Hiring a Fractional CMO provides several key advantages for businesses in Chicago. One of the primary benefits is cost-effectiveness. Hiring a full-time CMO can be prohibitively expensive for many small and mid-sized companies, especially when factoring in salaries, benefits, and bonuses. A Fractional CMO allows companies to access the same level of expertise without incurring the long-term costs of a full-time executive. This is especially important for startups or companies in growth phases that need strategic leadership but cannot justify a permanent hire.

    Another important factor is flexibility. Chicago businesses operate in a dynamic environment where market conditions can change rapidly. A Fractional CMO provides the agility needed to adapt to these changes. Whether your business is preparing for a product launch, experiencing rapid growth, or undergoing a rebranding process, a Fractional CMO can step in for as long as needed, offering strategic leadership and driving marketing efforts during critical periods.

    Many businesses in Chicago also face challenges related to scaling their marketing efforts. A Fractional CMO brings a wealth of experience in scaling marketing teams, managing campaigns, and optimizing marketing channels. They can help businesses identify the most effective ways to reach their target audience and build a stronger brand presence in the competitive Chicago market. Their expertise allows companies to make informed decisions and implement strategies that lead to measurable results.

    Lastly, a Fractional CMO offers a fresh perspective. For businesses that have been managing marketing internally or have relied on agencies, a Fractional CMO can bring new ideas, challenge existing assumptions, and provide innovative solutions to marketing challenges. This outside perspective is particularly valuable for companies that need to reposition their brand, enter new markets, or refine their marketing strategies to keep pace with evolving consumer demands.

    What services can a Fractional CMO offer to a Chicago business?

    A Fractional CMO offers a wide range of marketing services tailored to the specific needs of your business. At the core of their role is the development and execution of a comprehensive marketing strategy. This can involve conducting a thorough audit of your current marketing efforts, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and creating a plan that aligns with your business goals. Whether your company needs help with digital marketing, brand development, content strategy, or customer acquisition, a Fractional CMO will develop a roadmap to guide these initiatives.

    For many businesses in Chicago, a Fractional CMO plays a crucial role in digital marketing. They can help optimize your website, improve search engine rankings, and create targeted online advertising campaigns that reach the right audience. In a city as competitive as Chicago, where businesses must constantly differentiate themselves, a strong digital presence is essential. A Fractional CMO can also help manage social media strategies, ensuring that your brand is engaging with customers across multiple platforms in a way that builds trust and loyalty.

    In addition to digital marketing, a Fractional CMO can assist with lead generation and customer acquisition strategies. For companies in industries such as financial services or healthcare, where building trust is critical, a CMO can help develop campaigns that position your brand as a leader in the market. They may also oversee the development of content marketing strategies, ensuring that your messaging resonates with your target audience and drives conversions.

    Leadership and team management are other important aspects of a Fractional CMO’s role. They can take over the management of your existing marketing team, providing guidance and mentorship to ensure that the team is executing campaigns effectively. For businesses that rely on external marketing agencies or contractors, a Fractional CMO can manage these relationships, ensuring that all efforts are aligned with the company’s overall strategy and that projects are completed on time and within budget.

    For businesses in Chicago looking to expand into new markets, whether regionally or internationally, a Fractional CMO can provide the strategic direction needed to succeed. They will help identify opportunities for growth, develop market entry strategies, and oversee the execution of marketing efforts that ensure a smooth expansion.

     

    How long should businesses in Chicago expect to work with a Fractional CMO?

    The duration of an engagement with a Fractional CMO can vary depending on the needs and goals of the business. Some companies may hire a Fractional CMO for a short-term project, such as launching a new product, rebranding, or executing a specific marketing campaign. In these cases, the engagement might last for a few months, with the CMO working on a part-time basis to oversee the project from start to finish.

    For other businesses, a longer-term relationship with a Fractional CMO may be more appropriate. Many companies in Chicago choose to work with a Fractional CMO on an ongoing basis, with the CMO providing continuous strategic guidance and oversight. These engagements can last for a year or more, with the Fractional CMO stepping in as needed to ensure that marketing efforts remain aligned with the company’s growth goals.

    One of the key benefits of hiring a Fractional CMO is flexibility. They can scale their involvement up or down depending on the changing needs of your business. Whether you need them for a specific project or on a part-time basis over the long term, a Fractional CMO can adapt to the scope of your requirements, ensuring that you always have access to the level of marketing leadership your business needs.

    What industries in Chicago can benefit from hiring a Fractional CMO?

    Businesses across a wide range of industries in Chicago can benefit from hiring a Fractional CMO. One of the primary industries that can leverage the expertise of a Fractional CMO is the technology sector. In Chicago, tech companies face stiff competition, both locally and nationally. A Fractional CMO can help tech companies develop go-to-market strategies, optimize their digital marketing efforts, and position their brand in a way that resonates with their target audience.

    Healthcare is another sector where Fractional CMOs can be particularly valuable. Healthcare companies often face unique marketing challenges, such as regulatory compliance, building patient trust, and effectively communicating complex information. A Fractional CMO can help healthcare organizations develop marketing strategies that build credibility, enhance patient relationships, and ensure that all marketing efforts comply with industry regulations.

    Retail and e-commerce businesses in Chicago also stand to benefit from hiring a Fractional CMO. With the growth of online shopping and the increasing importance of social media marketing, retail companies need to ensure that their digital marketing efforts are engaging and effective. A Fractional CMO can help retail businesses develop targeted campaigns that drive traffic to their online stores, increase sales, and improve customer retention.

    Financial services firms, another key sector in Chicago’s economy, can also benefit from a Fractional CMO’s expertise. Whether it’s wealth management, insurance, or fintech, financial services firms often need help with branding, customer acquisition, and maintaining compliance with regulatory standards. A Fractional CMO can help these companies position themselves as trusted advisors in the marketplace while driving growth through targeted marketing strategies.

    Even more traditional industries, such as manufacturing and logistics, can benefit from a Fractional CMO. These companies often rely on traditional marketing methods but may need to modernize their strategies to stay competitive. A Fractional CMO can help bridge the gap between traditional and digital marketing efforts, ensuring that the business stays relevant in a rapidly changing marketplace.

    How does a Fractional CMO work with existing marketing teams?

    A Fractional CMO works closely with your existing marketing team to provide strategic leadership and direction. In many cases, businesses already have a marketing team in place but lack the high-level guidance needed to ensure that their efforts are aligned with the company’s overall business goals. A Fractional CMO can step in to provide that leadership, ensuring that the marketing team is executing campaigns effectively and working toward the same objectives.

    For smaller businesses with lean marketing teams, a Fractional CMO can provide the structure and guidance needed to maximize the team’s effectiveness. They will set clear goals and KPIs, establish timelines for achieving these goals, and provide ongoing feedback and mentorship to help the team improve its performance. This can lead to increased productivity, more effective campaigns, and better alignment with the company’s overall business strategy.

    For larger companies with more established marketing teams, a Fractional CMO can provide senior-level leadership and help drive innovation within the team. By working closely with team members, a Fractional CMO can foster a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring that the team is always looking for new ways to optimize marketing efforts and deliver better results.

    If your business works with external marketing agencies or contractors, a Fractional CMO can also manage these relationships, ensuring that all partners are aligned with the company’s strategy and that projects are completed on time and within budget.

    What is the cost of hiring a Fractional CMO in Chicago?

    The cost of hiring a Fractional CMO in Chicago can vary depending on several factors, including the scope of the engagement, the level of expertise required, and the size of the business. In general, Fractional CMOs charge significantly less than full-time CMOs, making them an attractive option for businesses that need high-level marketing leadership without the financial burden of a full-time hire.

    Fractional CMOs typically offer flexible pricing models, such as hourly rates, monthly retainers, or project-based fees. Hourly rates may range from $150 to $300 per hour, while monthly retainers for part-time engagements often range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the size and needs of the business.

    While hiring a Fractional CMO represents an investment, it is one that often delivers a strong return in terms of increased revenue, improved marketing performance, and long-term business growth. For many businesses in Chicago, the value of having access to executive-level marketing expertise far outweighs the costs involved.

    How can businesses in Chicago find the right Fractional CMO?

    Finding the right Fractional CMO for your Chicago business requires a careful evaluation of your company’s marketing needs and goals. Start by identifying the specific challenges you want to address, whether it’s improving lead generation, expanding into new markets, or optimizing your digital marketing efforts. Once you have a clear understanding of your objectives, you can begin searching for Fractional CMOs who have the right expertise and experience to help you achieve these goals.

    In Chicago, many businesses find Fractional CMOs through professional networks, industry associations, or referrals from other companies. You can also search for independent consultants or marketing agencies that specialize in providing Fractional CMO services.

    When evaluating potential candidates, look for someone with experience in your industry or market, as well as a proven track record of success in similar roles. It’s also important to consider their leadership style and how well they will integrate with your existing team. During the interview process, ask candidates for case studies or testimonials from previous clients to get a sense of their capabilities and the results they have delivered.

    Once you’ve selected a Fractional CMO, schedule an initial consultation to discuss your business goals, marketing challenges, and the scope of the engagement. This consultation will help you determine if the Fractional CMO is the right fit for your company and ensure that both parties have a clear understanding of expectations.

    Hiring a Fractional CMO is an investment in your company’s future. By bringing on a marketing leader who can offer strategic insights, guide your marketing efforts, and drive growth, you are setting your company up for long-term success in Chicago’s competitive business landscape.