Hire the Top Rated Fractional CMO Seattle

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 Seattle, 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 Seattle

"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 Seattle

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 Seattle?

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 Seattle

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

Hiring a Fractional CMO for our Seattle-based tech startup was one of the best decisions we’ve made. We needed someone with experience who could step in quickly, assess our marketing efforts, and create a clear strategy to grow our brand and lead generation. Our Fractional CMO brought a wealth of expertise in digital marketing, SEO, and content strategy. Within a few months, we saw significant improvements in our online presence and customer engagement. The best part is the flexibility—getting access to high-level strategic leadership without the cost of a full-time hire. If you're a growing business in Seattle, I highly recommend this option.

— Sed E.

As a mid-sized real estate company in Seattle, we needed someone to guide our marketing efforts, but a full-time CMO wasn't in the budget. Our Fractional CMO completely transformed the way we approached our marketing strategy. From improving our brand messaging to optimizing digital campaigns, their insights were invaluable. We saw an increase in lead generation and conversion rates in just a few months. Their knowledge of the local market and ability to guide our team effectively made a huge difference. For any business looking for top-tier marketing leadership without the long-term commitment, a Fractional CMO is a perfect fit.

— Roman A.

We were looking for marketing expertise to help us scale our e-commerce business in Seattle, and a Fractional CMO turned out to be exactly what we needed. They helped refine our brand identity, optimized our paid advertising efforts, and brought a strategic approach to everything from social media to email marketing. Not only did they help us grow our customer base, but they also gave us the tools to maintain that growth. The flexibility to have this level of expertise on a part-time basis was a huge benefit. We’ve seen a significant improvement in sales and customer retention, and I highly recommend this service to other Seattle businesses.

— 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 Seattle

When hiring a Fractional CMO in Seattle, you can expect an experienced marketing leader who offers both strategic insight and operational guidance, all tailored to meet the specific needs of your business. From the outset, your Fractional CMO will conduct an in-depth assessment of your current marketing initiatives, identifying areas for improvement and determining how best to align your marketing strategy with your business goals. Whether your focus is on customer acquisition, brand building, or entering new markets, they will craft a customized plan to drive growth and performance.

A key benefit of working with a Fractional CMO in Seattle is their ability to provide leadership without the full-time financial commitment. They will work closely with your existing marketing team or external agencies, guiding day-to-day operations while ensuring that all marketing activities align with a cohesive, long-term strategy. Their role is flexible, allowing you to engage them for specific projects, such as a product launch, digital transformation, or rebranding effort, or on a longer-term basis to oversee your entire marketing function.

You should also expect your Fractional CMO to bring a data-driven approach to your marketing efforts. In Seattle’s competitive and fast-evolving business environment, it’s crucial to have marketing strategies that are both innovative and measurable. Your Fractional CMO will establish key performance indicators (KPIs) that match your business objectives and will regularly monitor campaign performance to ensure that you’re getting a strong return on investment. They will provide you with insights and reporting on critical metrics such as website traffic, lead generation, customer engagement, and conversion rates, making adjustments as needed to maximize results.

Seattle is a hub for technology, innovation, and forward-thinking businesses. Your Fractional CMO will bring not only expertise in modern marketing techniques but also an understanding of the local business environment. They will be well-versed in the digital and tech landscape, using tools like SEO, social media, and paid advertising to help your business stay competitive. They will also understand the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the Seattle market, whether you’re targeting local consumers or operating on a broader, national scale.

Flexibility is another essential element of the relationship with your Fractional CMO. They will be adaptable to your business’s needs, scaling their involvement as required. Whether you need short-term support for a specific campaign or ongoing leadership for more comprehensive marketing needs, your Fractional CMO will provide the right level of engagement to suit your business objectives. This flexibility allows you to optimize your marketing efforts without overextending your budget or committing to a long-term executive hire.

In summary, when working with a Fractional CMO in Seattle, you can expect expert-level strategic guidance, hands-on leadership, a focus on measurable results, and a tailored, flexible approach that fits the dynamic nature of your business. Their understanding of Seattle’s unique market and their ability to integrate cutting-edge digital marketing strategies will be invaluable in helping your business grow and thrive.

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 senior marketing executive who provides high-level marketing leadership on a part-time or contract basis. Unlike a full-time CMO, who would be a permanent member of a company’s executive team, a Fractional CMO works with multiple clients, offering their expertise without the long-term financial commitment of a full-time hire. They are often hired by businesses that need strategic marketing direction but do not require or cannot afford a full-time CMO. Fractional CMOs bring the same depth of experience, knowledge, and leadership as a traditional CMO, but they offer flexibility, making their services particularly appealing for growing businesses.

In Seattle, a Fractional CMO is especially valuable for companies that are expanding or transitioning, whether they are tech startups, e-commerce businesses, or service-based companies. By engaging a Fractional CMO, businesses in the Seattle area can access expert-level marketing leadership tailored to their specific needs, helping them scale without the burden of a full-time executive salary.

How does a Fractional CMO work with Seattle businesses?

A Fractional CMO integrates into a company’s leadership structure, collaborating with the CEO and other executives to understand the business’s goals and challenges. They will begin by conducting a thorough audit of the company’s current marketing efforts, identifying gaps in strategy, brand positioning, and customer engagement. This audit informs the development of a customized marketing plan designed to address the company’s specific needs, whether it’s improving lead generation, strengthening brand presence, or refining messaging to target key markets.

Once the strategy is in place, the Fractional CMO oversees its execution, working with internal marketing teams, external agencies, or a combination of both. Their role involves managing the day-to-day marketing operations while also ensuring that all campaigns and initiatives align with the company’s broader objectives. Depending on the business’s needs, the Fractional CMO may focus on digital marketing, SEO, content strategy, paid advertising, or brand development.

In Seattle’s diverse and competitive business landscape, companies often face challenges related to scaling, differentiating themselves in crowded markets, or keeping up with rapidly changing digital trends. A Fractional CMO provides the strategic guidance needed to navigate these challenges. They bring an external perspective that can be crucial in identifying new opportunities, streamlining marketing efforts, and driving measurable results.

Why would a business in Seattle hire a Fractional CMO?

Businesses in Seattle often hire a Fractional CMO to gain access to senior-level marketing leadership without the expense or long-term commitment of a full-time executive. For many small to mid-sized companies, a full-time CMO is simply not feasible. However, these businesses still need the strategic direction, experience, and insights that a CMO can provide. This is where a Fractional CMO becomes valuable. They offer a flexible, scalable solution that allows businesses to benefit from expert marketing leadership without the overhead associated with a permanent hire.

Seattle is home to a wide range of industries, including technology, healthcare, real estate, and professional services. Companies in these sectors often face unique marketing challenges, such as breaking into competitive markets, managing rapid growth, or pivoting to new business models. A Fractional CMO can step in during these critical times to provide the guidance necessary for successful transitions.

Another reason businesses in Seattle hire Fractional CMOs is for their ability to lead marketing during periods of significant change, such as product launches, rebranding efforts, or market expansions. In these situations, companies need an experienced hand to guide their marketing team and ensure that all efforts are aligned with the business’s overall goals. A Fractional CMO brings this expertise, helping businesses achieve their objectives while maintaining the flexibility to adjust the scope of their engagement as needed.

Can a Fractional CMO help with digital marketing?

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 businesses’ marketing strategies, and a Fractional CMO can help companies in Seattle navigate the complexities of online marketing, from search engine optimization (SEO) and social media marketing to paid advertising and email campaigns.

Fractional CMOs are familiar with the latest digital marketing tools and platforms, including Google Analytics, HubSpot, and various social media management systems. They can help businesses optimize their digital marketing strategies, improve lead generation, and increase customer engagement through targeted online efforts. For companies looking to enhance their online presence, a Fractional CMO provides the expertise needed to create and execute effective digital marketing campaigns.

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 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 company’s 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 goals and regularly track performance to ensure the company is on track.

Success is ultimately measured by the tangible impact that marketing initiatives have on the business, whether that’s in terms of increased sales, improved brand recognition, or more efficient use of marketing resources.

How does a Fractional CMO collaborate with existing teams in Seattle businesses?

A Fractional CMO works closely with a company’s internal marketing teams, leadership, and sometimes external agencies. Collaboration is at the core of their role. One of the first steps they take is to meet with the business leaders to understand the overall goals and vision of the company. This sets the foundation for building a tailored marketing strategy that supports the business objectives.

In most Seattle-based businesses, there are marketing teams in place who might be responsible for daily operations, like managing social media, handling content creation, or executing ad campaigns. The Fractional CMO acts as a strategic leader, guiding these teams to ensure their efforts are aligned with the broader marketing goals. They assess the team’s strengths and weaknesses and may offer mentorship or recommend upskilling in specific areas, such as analytics, digital advertising, or content strategy.

When working with external agencies, a Fractional CMO ensures that there is a seamless integration between the agency’s efforts and the company’s internal initiatives. This can include overseeing paid media campaigns, coordinating content marketing, or managing SEO efforts, ensuring that all marketing functions work cohesively toward the company’s goals. The CMO takes on the leadership role, ensuring that agencies deliver on agreed-upon KPIs and timelines.

For businesses in Seattle, this collaboration is essential. Whether it’s a small startup with a lean marketing team or a larger business navigating complex projects, the Fractional CMO is adept at bringing all the pieces together, ensuring that every effort aligns with a cohesive, strategic marketing plan that delivers results.

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

A variety of businesses across different industries can benefit from hiring a Fractional CMO. Small and mid-sized businesses are among the primary beneficiaries, as they often lack the budget to hire a full-time CMO but still require high-level marketing leadership to grow. These companies include startups in Seattle’s tech and healthcare sectors, which are frequently in need of strategic direction to build brand recognition, acquire customers, and scale their operations.

Established businesses in industries like real estate, e-commerce, and professional services also find value in working with a Fractional CMO. These companies often have internal marketing teams but require senior-level guidance to refine their strategies, optimize their marketing spend, and improve lead generation. A Fractional CMO provides the leadership needed to bring these efforts together and ensure that the company’s marketing is cohesive and effective.

Even larger businesses in Seattle can benefit from a Fractional CMO during periods of transition or growth. Whether they are launching a new product, expanding into a new market, or undergoing a rebranding process, these companies need marketing leadership to steer them through these changes. A Fractional CMO can step in on a temporary basis to lead these initiatives, offering the expertise required to ensure that marketing efforts are aligned with broader business objectives and are executed efficiently.

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

The cost of hiring a Fractional CMO in Seattle varies depending on the scope of the engagement, the level of expertise required, and the duration of the relationship. Typically, Fractional CMOs charge on a retainer or hourly basis. 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 can fall between $200 and $500, depending on their experience and the specific goals of the business.

While the cost of hiring a Fractional CMO may seem substantial, it is often far less than the cost of hiring a full-time executive. A full-time CMO’s salary, benefits, and bonuses can easily exceed six figures annually. By contrast, a Fractional CMO provides the same level of strategic insight and leadership but on a flexible, part-time basis, allowing businesses to control costs while still benefiting from expert marketing direction.

The return on investment is often significant, as a Fractional CMO can help businesses optimize their marketing efforts, improve lead generation, and refine brand messaging to attract and retain customers. The ability to access this expertise without committing to a long-term, full-time hire makes the Fractional CMO model an attractive option for many Seattle businesses.

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

The duration of a Fractional CMO’s engagement with a business depends on the specific needs and objectives of the company. Some businesses may hire a Fractional CMO for a short-term project, such as launching a new product, conducting a marketing audit, or managing a rebranding effort. These engagements can last anywhere from a few months to six months. Other companies may require ongoing strategic guidance, particularly if they are in a growth phase or undergoing significant transitions. In these cases, the engagement could last a year or longer.

Many businesses in Seattle find that a six-month to one-year engagement with a Fractional CMO is ideal, as it allows enough time to develop and implement a marketing strategy, track performance, and adjust campaigns as needed. The flexible nature of a Fractional CMO’s role allows businesses to scale the engagement up or down depending on their evolving needs, ensuring they get the right level of support at the right time.

Some businesses may also choose to keep a Fractional CMO on retainer for an extended period, particularly if they need continuous leadership and strategic oversight but are not yet ready to hire a full-time CMO. This flexibility ensures that companies can access senior-level marketing leadership without being locked into a permanent hire.

What are the key responsibilities of a Fractional CMO in Seattle?

A Fractional CMO is responsible for overseeing all aspects of a company’s marketing efforts, from developing a comprehensive marketing strategy to managing day-to-day execution. Their role typically includes creating and refining a marketing strategy that aligns with the company’s overall business goals, whether that involves increasing brand awareness, improving lead generation, or launching new products.

Fractional CMOs often manage internal marketing teams, offering leadership and mentorship to ensure that campaigns are executed effectively. They also work with external agencies when necessary, coordinating efforts across multiple channels, such as digital marketing, social media, SEO, and paid advertising. A key aspect of their role is to track the performance of marketing initiatives, using data and analytics to refine strategies and ensure that the company is achieving its desired outcomes.

In Seattle, where industries like technology, healthcare, and e-commerce are rapidly evolving, a Fractional CMO may also be responsible for identifying new growth opportunities. This could involve expanding into new markets, improving digital marketing efforts, or adopting emerging trends to stay competitive. Their goal is to optimize the company’s marketing efforts and drive sustained growth.

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

One of the most significant benefits of hiring a Fractional CMO over a full-time CMO is the cost savings. A full-time CMO’s salary, combined with benefits and bonuses, can be a substantial financial burden, especially for small to mid-sized businesses. By hiring a Fractional CMO, companies can access senior-level marketing leadership on a part-time basis, allowing them to get the expertise they need without the full-time expense.

Flexibility is another major benefit. A Fractional CMO can be engaged for short-term projects or provide ongoing strategic guidance as needed, allowing businesses to scale their marketing efforts up or down based on their current needs. This flexibility is especially valuable for companies in Seattle, where the business landscape is fast-paced and constantly evolving.

In addition to cost savings and flexibility, a Fractional CMO brings a fresh perspective to the company. Because Fractional CMOs typically work with multiple clients across different industries, they bring a wealth of knowledge and best practices that can be applied to new challenges. This broad experience allows them to identify innovative solutions and opportunities for growth that internal teams may not have considered.

For businesses in Seattle, hiring a Fractional CMO provides the opportunity to benefit from expert marketing leadership without the long-term commitment and financial burden of a full-time hire. This makes the model particularly attractive for growing businesses that need senior marketing direction but want to remain agile.

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Hire the Top Rated Fractional CMO Seattle

Hire the Top Rated Fractional CMO Seattle