Top Fractional CMO Experts in Chicago: Leading Marketing Innovation

In today’s fast-paced business world, many companies are turning to fractional Chief Marketing Officers (CMOs) to guide their marketing strategies without the cost of a full-time hire. Chicago, with its vibrant business scene, is home to several seasoned fractional CMO professionals. These experts bring decades of experience, strategic insight, and fresh perspectives to businesses of all sizes. Whether you’re looking to elevate your brand or streamline your marketing efforts, the best fractional CMOs in Chicago can provide the leadership and expertise you need to drive results.

What is a CMO?

A Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) is a high-level executive responsible for overseeing a company’s marketing strategies and efforts. The CMO plays a crucial role in shaping the brand’s image, driving growth, and ensuring the business connects with its target audience effectively. Their responsibilities typically include market research, product development, advertising, public relations, and digital strategy.

In smaller or mid-sized businesses, hiring a full-time CMO might not be financially feasible. This is where a fractional CMO comes in. A fractional CMO provides the same level of expertise and leadership but on a part-time or contract basis, allowing businesses to benefit from senior-level marketing guidance without the full-time cost. This flexible approach has made fractional CMOs a popular choice for businesses seeking to scale or refine their marketing efforts.

NUOPTIMA: Redefining CFO Leadership for Founders

At NUOPTIMA, we are dedicated to redefining financial leadership for Chicago’s vibrant business community. Our C-Suite Connect platform, founded by Alexej Pikovsky, provides access to pre-vetted, fractional CFOs who drive profitability through data-driven strategies. We specialize in working with founder-led companies, ensuring that each CFO in our network is hand-selected through a meticulous vetting process, personally overseen by Alexej. 

This rigorous selection includes:

• Background check: Verifying a proven track record of financial success.
• Financial modeling exam: Testing proficiency in strategic forecasting and analysis.
• Reference calls: Confirming credibility and impactful results.
• Culture fit interview: Ensuring alignment with your company’s vision and values.
• Paid trial sprint: Demonstrating real-world execution and results.

We only allow the most exceptional CFOs into our C-Suite Connect pool, ready to provide transformative financial guidance for your business.

What sets NUOPTIMA’s C-Suite Connect apart:

• Strategy + Execution: Our CFOs blend high-level financial planning with hands-on implementation.
• Chicago Expertise: We bring deep knowledge of Chicago’s competitive markets, from tech to e-commerce.
• Rapid Matching: We connect you with a tailored CFO in just 7-10 days.
• Founder-Aligned Precision: Alexej personally ensures each CFO placement aligns with your company’s culture and strategic goals.

At NUOPTIMA, we empower Chicago businesses to optimize cash flow, scale effectively, and align financial strategies with growth objectives, while also leveraging our data-driven marketing insights.

Best Fractional CMOs in Chicago

1. Andy Friedman, Marketing Leader & Fractional CMO

Andy Friedman is a marketing leader with 20+ years of experience in digital transformation and revenue growth across industries like software, medical devices, B2B manufacturing, and publishing. He specializes in content strategy, digital marketing, and event management, with a focus on using AI to optimize marketing and reduce costs. Experienced in managing regulated industries, Andy leads teams and develops strategies that deliver measurable results as a fractional CMO.

Core Focus

Andy specializes in digital marketing, lead generation, and content strategy, with an emphasis on helping businesses navigate the complexities of modern marketing while achieving measurable results.

Operational Marketing Highlights

• Spearheaded marketing efforts in 63 countries for a SaaS company in the restaurant design industry.
• Implemented lead generation programs, resulting in a 4X increase in qualified leads.
• Amplified brand awareness through content marketing and video, achieving 400% SEO growth and a 1,900% increase in social engagement.
• Led the integration of AI across marketing teams to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
• Drove a 6X revenue increase during the pandemic by launching a virtual event platform.

CMO Achievements

• Increased ROI by $1 million for a portfolio of 50 live events during his tenure as Chief Content Officer at the American Marketing Association.
• Led a 1,900% increase in social engagement for Specifi Software.
• Played a key role in scaling an international team of marketers and consultants.
• Directly reported to the CEO and was a member of the executive team at Specifi Software.

Education and Work Experience

• Education: Andy holds an MBA in Marketing from the University of Southern California and a B.A. in History from the University of California, Berkeley.
• Work Experience: Andy is currently the Chief Marketing Officer at Specifi. He has previously held roles as Chief Content Officer at the American Marketing Association and Executive Director, Content & User Engagement at Penton.

Job History

• Head of Marketing at Chicago Fractional CMO (Sep 2024 – Present): Provides interim and part-time marketing leadership for businesses across industries.
• Chief Marketing Officer at Specifi (Aug 2018 – Aug 2024): Led global marketing efforts for a SaaS company in the restaurant design industry, achieving significant growth in lead generation and brand awareness.
• Consulting & Interim Leadership at Future (Feb 2018 – Aug 2018): Provided strategic marketing guidance for various businesses, including a medical device manufacturer.
• Chief Content Officer at American Marketing Association (Jul 2015 – Jan 2018): Oversaw content strategy and event programming, driving significant ROI and digital engagement improvements.
• Executive Director, Content & User Engagement at Penton (Aug 2013 – Jul 2015): Led content strategies for B2B trade publications, resulting in substantial revenue growth and online engagement.

Other Experience

Andy has also served as a startup mentor at 1871 Chicago, helping emerging businesses optimize their digital marketing strategies and navigate the challenges of growth. His volunteer work with World Relief Chicago is another example of his commitment to community building, where he assists newly-arrived refugees with adjusting to life in the U.S.

Contact Information

• LinkedIn Profile: www.linkedin.com/in/andyfriedman
• Location: Chicago, Illinois, USA

2. Benjamin Garbe, Fractional CMO & Creative Director

Benjamin Garbe is a marketing professional with expertise in content creation, brand strategy, and digital marketing. He has worked across industries such as AI, defense, energy, and entertainment, focusing on creating impactful narratives that connect with customers. His experience includes launching marketing campaigns and producing award-winning films, with a strong emphasis on creativity, strategy, and delivering measurable results.

Core Focus

Benjamin specializes in blending creativity with data-driven marketing strategies. His approach focuses on storytelling, crafting memorable experiences, and driving engagement through innovative content and digital media strategies.

Operational Marketing Highlights

• Developed marketing strategies for AI-driven account-based marketing firms.
• Led rebranding efforts for life insurance companies and tech firms post-acquisitions.
• Produced highly engaging content for various sectors, including AI and entertainment.
• Worked with startups and established brands to revitalize marketing strategies and sales materials.
• Fostered creative collaboration and developed teams that thrive on innovative problem-solving.

CMO Achievements

• Led the marketing strategy for Parasanti, an AI/ML company, with applications in defense and energy.
• Successfully created and implemented rebranding campaigns, driving significant engagement and growth.
• Produced two feature films and an award-winning animated series, “Omega House,” acquired by Comedy Central.
• Helped a semiconductor testing company overhaul marketing materials after a private equity acquisition.

Education and Work Experience

• Education: Benjamin holds a B.S. in Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
• Work Experience: Benjamin is currently a Fractional CMO & Creative Director. He has previously served as Chief Marketing Officer at Parasanti and Senior Consultant | Head of Video & Animation at Kantar.

Job History

• Fractional CMO & Creative Director (Apr 2023 – Present): Solves marketing, content, and design challenges for clients across various industries, with a focus on startups and tech companies.
• Chief Marketing Officer at Parasanti (Sep 2021 – Mar 2023): Led AI/ML marketing initiatives at the intersection of defense and advanced energy.
• Senior Consultant | Head of Video & Animation at Kantar (Jan 2020 – Sep 2021): Managed global client relationships and led video and animation strategies for marketing campaigns.
• Producer at Family Squid (Sep 2014 – Sep 2021): Produced award-winning films and a series acquired by Comedy Central.
• Rapper/Owner at RACHEER MEDIA, LTD. (Apr 2012 – Sep 2021): Managed music distribution, produced content, and gained over 10 million views on platforms like YouTube and Spotify.

Other Experience

Benjamin Garbe’s entrepreneurial journey includes touring as a rapper, starting a record label, and working with creative teams to produce content for entertainment and digital marketing. He has experience in AI/ML product marketing and storytelling, creating content that connects with audiences across various industries.

Contact Information

• LinkedIn Profile: www.linkedin.com/in/bengarbe
• Location: Chicago, Illinois, USA

3. Jessica Doyle, Fractional CMO & Marketing Consultant

Jessica Doyle is a marketing executive with expertise in digital growth, consumer marketing, and product marketing. She has led growth initiatives in digital media, sports, and entertainment, focusing on strategy, CRM, and user engagement. As a Fractional CMO, Jessica has helped tech companies improve performance and expand their market presence.

Core Focus

Jessica focuses on helping consumer technology companies drive scalable growth by leveraging creative marketing strategies, CRM systems, and data insights. Her expertise lies in full-funnel campaign planning, customer retention, and product marketing.

Operational Marketing Highlights

• Led marketing strategy and execution for direct-to-consumer initiatives at the NBA, including NBA App, NBA.com, and League Pass subscriptions.
• Developed and optimized user acquisition, engagement, and retention strategies at Cameo and Twitch.
• Created successful marketing campaigns that increased product engagement and brand loyalty.
• Extensive experience in managing multi-disciplinary teams and driving results across CRM, paid media, and digital content.
• Expertise in advising and mentoring startups on marketing, digital growth, and brand strategy.

CMO Achievements

• Increased user engagement and retention across NBA platforms, contributing to sustained growth in the fan base.
• Spearheaded growth marketing efforts at Cameo, expanding product offerings and scaling marketing operations.
• Drove product marketing at Uber and Twitch, improving user acquisition and retention.
• Successfully launched integrated marketing campaigns at Twitch, increasing creator engagement across the platform.

Education and Work Experience

• Education: Jessica holds a Bachelor of Science in Business from Indiana University – Kelley School of Business.
• Work Experience: Jessica is currently a Fractional CMO & Marketing Consultant at Jessica Doyle | Marketing & Growth Advisory. She has previously served as Vice President, Digital Growth and Marketing at NBA and Head of Growth at Cameo.

Job History

• Fractional CMO & Marketing Consultant at Jessica Doyle | Marketing & Growth Advisory (Mar 2025 – Present): Provides strategic marketing leadership and consulting to help companies optimize digital growth and scale their marketing initiatives.
• Vice President, Digital Growth and Marketing at NBA (Sep 2020 – Mar 2025): Led digital growth strategies for NBA’s direct-to-consumer platforms, including user acquisition, engagement, and retention efforts.
• Head of Growth at Cameo (Jan 2019 – Sep 2020): Developed and implemented growth strategies to scale Cameo’s user base, focusing on creator marketing and engagement.
• Creator Product and Growth Marketing Lead at Twitch (May 2017 – Jan 2019): Optimized marketing strategies to support creators, enhancing growth across the platform.
• Product Marketing Manager at Uber (Jul 2016 – Apr 2017): Led product marketing initiatives to improve driver engagement and retention across North America.

Other Experience

Jessica Doyle has mentored startups, helping them scale and refine their marketing strategies. She has also worked with consumer tech companies to develop customer-focused growth strategies.

Contact Information

• LinkedIn Profile: www.linkedin.com/in/jessicasdoyle
• Location: Chicago, Illinois, USA

4. Ron Shulkin, Fractional CMO & Marketing Strategist

Ron Shulkin is a Fractional CMO with over seven years of experience helping digital startups with go-to-market strategies. He focuses on crafting clear messaging and content that engages target audiences. Ron works with teams to refine strategies, identify key markets, and use digital marketing tools to drive growth. He is currently involved with Business Network Chicago, supporting entrepreneurs and startups with market fit and customer acquisition.

Core Focus

Ron specializes in fractional marketing leadership for digital technology startups, offering strategic guidance in go-to-market plans, product launches, and customer engagement. His approach emphasizes storytelling, brand differentiation, and leveraging the latest digital tools to drive growth.

Operational Marketing Highlights

• Helped startups refine their messaging and discover optimal markets.
• Led product launch campaigns and executed creative marketing strategies.
• Focused on consumer engagement and brand positioning.
• Guided businesses through the development of their marketing and sales functions.
• Mentored startup teams and facilitated networking opportunities.

CMO Achievements

• Founded Fractional CMO Group LLC, offering strategic marketing leadership to digital technology startups.
• Led successful product launch campaigns for numerous tech startups.
• Developed go-to-market strategies that enhanced market awareness and credibility.
• Helped various startups secure investments and expand their market presence.
• Actively involved in the Chicago startup ecosystem, supporting emerging digital technology ventures.

Education and Work Experience

• Education: Ron studied Psychology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and Biology at Loyola University Chicago.
• Work Experience: Ron is currently a Fractional CMO at Fractional CMO Group LLC and Business Network Chicago. He is also the creator of CHAOS IN AMERICA, the Board Game.

Job History

• Fractional CMO at Fractional CMO Group LLC (May 2016 – Present): Provides fractional marketing leadership to emerging digital technology startups, specializing in go-to-market strategies and product launch campaigns.
• Fractional CMO at Business Network Chicago (Jan 2020 – Present): Supports the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Chicago, helping startups refine their marketing strategies and connect with investors.
• Creator of CHAOS IN AMERICA, the Board Game (Jan 2025 – Present): Developed and created a board game that encourages players to understand political dynamics while taking action to fight authoritarianism.

Other Experience

Ron has contributed to several other initiatives, including being a mentor at 1871 and managing social media for the Mather Alumni Board. He is passionate about innovation and is a regular speaker and mentor at various startup events.

Contact Information

• LinkedIn Profile: www.linkedin.com/in/ronshulkin
• Location: Chicago, Illinois, USA

5. Jen Panattoni, Fractional CMO & Founder of Good Stuff Marketing

Jen Panattoni is a Fractional CMO and founder of Good Stuff Marketing. With over 15 years of experience, she helps purpose-driven brands in wellness, sustainability, and social impact develop marketing strategies that align with their mission and drive growth. Jen offers both short-term strategy sprints and long-term partnerships to help clients build momentum and connect with their audience.

Core Focus

Jen helps mission-led businesses, especially those in wellness, sustainability, and social impact sectors, scale sustainably through ethical marketing, brand storytelling, and aligned campaign development.

Operational Marketing Highlights

• Specializes in developing and executing brand storytelling strategies.
• Focuses on ethical marketing audits and sustainable campaign creation.
• Assists businesses in clarifying their brand voice and scaling to connect with conscious consumers.
• Provides fractional CMO leadership, planning, and team coordination.

CMO Achievements

• Founder of Good Stuff Marketing Co., focusing on ethical marketing strategies for purpose-driven brands.
• Successfully guided brands in the wellness, sustainability, and social impact spaces to scale in alignment with their mission.
• Delivered high-impact marketing strategies that built long-lasting consumer trust and engagement.

Education and Work Experience

• Education: Jen holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Marketing from DePaul University.
• Work Experience: Jen is the Founder & Fractional CMO at Good Stuff Marketing Co. She has previously served as the Director of Marketing at the American Foundation for Children with AIDS and Director of Business Development and Marketing at Verde Energy Efficiency Experts.

Job History

• Founder & Fractional CMO at Good Stuff Marketing Co. (Sept. 2022 – Present): Leads marketing strategy for mission-led businesses, providing fractional CMO leadership, ethical marketing audits, and brand storytelling services.
• Director of Marketing at American Foundation for Children with AIDS (Sept. 2021 – Sept. 2022): Planned and implemented strategic marketing programs to support awareness and public engagement efforts.
• Director of Business Development and Marketing at Verde Energy Efficiency Experts (July 2017 – Apr. 2020): Led business development through targeted marketing campaigns and sales capabilities.

Other Experience

Jen has worked on initiatives like helping businesses implement sustainable practices with Go Green Park Ridge and supporting fundraising and outreach as Board Secretary for the American Foundation for Children with AIDS.

Contact Information

• LinkedIn Profile: www.linkedin.com/in/jenpanattoni
• Location: Greater Chicago Area, USA

6. Terry Haley, Chief Marketing Officer & Founder of Catalyst Growth Advisors

Terry Haley is a Chief Marketing Officer and growth leader with over 20 years of experience in B2C sectors such as CPG, food & beverage, restaurants, and DTC meal solutions. He is the founder of Catalyst Growth Advisors, offering fractional executive leadership, growth strategy, and execution services. Terry has a proven track record of scaling brands, driving digital transformation, and leading teams to achieve growth. His focus is on brand strategy, digital innovation, and data-driven marketing to deliver measurable results.

Core Focus

Terry helps businesses across diverse industries accelerate growth through strategic brand development, digital innovation, and performance marketing. His work includes driving measurable revenue growth, optimizing digital platforms, and transforming brands into lifestyle solutions.

Operational Marketing Highlights

• Led digital transformation initiatives that drove significant revenue growth, including an $8M+ incremental revenue from AI-driven personalization.
• Evolved brand propositions, including a 500% increase in revenue from consumable goods.
• Optimized growth marketing, resulting in a 300% increase in email-driven revenue.
• Managed teams of 50+ professionals across marketing, product innovation, and consumer experience.

CMO Achievements

• Successfully increased revenue and optimized product margins for various brands, including a 500% increase in consumable goods revenue.
• Played a pivotal role in the digital transformation of Pampered Chef, leading initiatives that resulted in significant growth across digital platforms.
• Drove industry recognition with consecutive Digital Innovation Awards from the Direct Selling Association (DSA).

Education and Work Experience

• Education: Terry holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science & Public Relations, both from Marquette University.
• Work Experience: Terry is the Founder of Catalyst Growth Advisors. He has previously served as Chief Commercial Officer at Pampered Chef, Chief Marketing Officer at Hopdoddy Burger Bar, Chief Marketing Officer at World of Beer Franchising, Inc., and Vice President of Marketing at P.F. Chang’s China Bistro.

Job History

• Founder at Catalyst Growth Advisors (2019 – Present): Provides fractional CMO/CGO services, growth strategy, and execution, focusing on private equity portfolio optimization and commercial leadership.
• Chief Commercial Officer at Pampered Chef (2023 – 2024): Led digital transformation and experienced innovation initiatives, enhancing consumer engagement and driving significant sales growth.
• Chief Marketing Officer at Hopdoddy Burger Bar (2017 – 2019): Developed and executed a growth strategy that reversed sales declines and led to consistent same-store growth.
• Chief Marketing Officer at World of Beer Franchising, Inc. (2014 – 2017): Built marketing capabilities for a growing franchise, contributing to expansion efforts in domestic and international markets.

Other Experience

Terry has been on the Energy Ball Committee for the Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA) and served as an Advisory Board Member for MILE (Marketing Innovation and Leadership Exchange) – REVELRY GROUP, where he helped develop marketing strategies in the foodservice and hospitality industries.

Contact Information

• LinkedIn Profile: www.linkedin.com/in/terryhaley
• Location: Greater Chicago Area, USA

7. Joanna Friel, Fractional CMO & Creative Director

Joanna Friel is a creative leader and marketer with extensive experience in driving marketing strategies for growing brands. As Fractional CMO of GourminiS, she helped scale the brand from a small kitchen operation to a recognized name, focusing on brand voice and digital marketing. Joanna thrives in fast-paced environments, leading teams to deliver results through strategic insights, creativity, and effective execution.

Core Focus

Joanna focuses on creative brand development, storytelling, and digital marketing strategy. She excels at leading teams through innovative problem-solving and transforming brands into beloved entities.

Operational Marketing Highlights

• Developed the brand positioning and voice for GourminiS, a small yet popular gourmet candy company.
• Spearheaded a digital marketing strategy to engage customers and build brand loyalty.
• Led creative teams at Fingerpaint and Intouch Solutions, delivering high-impact campaigns across healthcare and other industries.

CMO Achievements

• Orchestrated a comprehensive marketing plan that drove significant brand growth for GourminiS, expanding its presence in farmers markets and wholesale outlets.
• Mentored creative teams to elevate their craft across digital, social, and print media at Fingerpaint.
• Pioneered creative processes at Intouch Solutions to bring innovative healthcare solutions to market.

Education and Work Experience

• Education: Joanna holds a BA in Marketing from Columbia College Chicago.
• Work Experience: Joanna is a Fractional CMO at GourminiS. She has previously worked as Creative Director at Fingerpaint Group, SVP Group Creative Director at Intouch Solutions, and Creative Director at TBWA\WORLDHEALTH.

Job History

• Fractional CMO at GourminiS (2012 – Present): Developed and executed brand positioning and digital marketing strategies for a growing gourmet candy brand.
• Creative Director at Fingerpaint Group (2021 – 2023): Led the creative department, elevating the craft across digital, social, and print media.
• SVP Group Creative Director at Intouch Solutions (2012 – 2021): Directed creative efforts for healthcare brands, turning blue-sky ideas into actionable marketing solutions.
• Creative Director at TBWA\WORLDHEALTH (2003 – 2012): Led creative teams and oversaw brand strategies for various healthcare companies.

Other Experience

Joanna has contributed to the growth and development of the advertising industry through her mentoring and leadership in the creative sector. She has also been instrumental in building collaborative teams that inspire creativity while maintaining focus on business objectives.

Contact Information

• LinkedIn Profile: www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-friel-6232134
• Location: Greater Chicago Area, USA

8. Sally Kenny, MBA – Chief Marketing Officer & Fractional CMO

Sally Kenny is a seasoned Chief Marketing Officer and Fractional CMO with over ten years of experience in marketing leadership for professional service businesses. As the founder of Hustle Marketing, she helps CPAs, financial advisors, and health professionals create and execute marketing strategies. She is also CMO at Origin CPA Group, where she is modernizing the CPA model for high-net-worth clients. Sally specializes in building marketing infrastructures and optimizing strategies for small to mid-sized businesses.

Core Focus

Sally specializes in providing Fractional CMO services, helping businesses in the financial and healthcare sectors improve their marketing strategies and drive growth.

Operational Marketing Highlights

• Provides senior-level marketing leadership to small professional service businesses.
• Develops marketing strategies and teams to execute growth plans for highly skilled professionals.
• Currently leads marketing efforts at Origin CPA Group to redefine the CPA client experience.

CMO Achievements

• Created and executed detailed marketing strategies for multiple businesses in the financial and healthcare industries.
• Led the development of Atlas at Origin CPA Group, streamlining services for wealthy families with complex financial needs.
• Worked with clients to develop personalized marketing plans, driving their market presence and customer loyalty.

Education and Work Experience

• Education: Sally holds an MBA in Business Administration and Management from James Cook University and a BA in Business from The College of St. Scholastica.
• Work Experience: Sally is a Fractional CMO at Hustle-Marketing. She is also the CMO at Origin CPA Group. Previously, she worked as Fractional CMO at Align Marketing Group, Founder & Chief Ambassador at seesomegood, and VP of Marketing at AutoXpress Data & Mail.

Job History

• Fractional CMO at Hustle-Marketing (2016 – Present): Worked with CPAs, financial advisors, and other professional service businesses to enhance their marketing strategies.
• CMO at Origin CPA Group (2024 – Present): Spearheading marketing efforts to redefine the CPA service model for wealthy individuals and families.
• Fractional CMO at Align Marketing Group (2022 – Present): Provided marketing leadership and guidance to businesses in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area.
• Founder & Chief Ambassador at seesomegood (2019 – 2024): Launched and led a community-driven business initiative.
• VP of Marketing at AutoXpress Data & Mail (2019 – 2024): Developed and executed marketing strategies to enhance AutoXpress’s market reach.

Other Experience

Sally’s work extends beyond traditional marketing roles, having founded seesomegood, a community-focused initiative that combined social impact with business strategies. Her entrepreneurial spirit and passion for creating meaningful change are central to her approach.

Contact Information

• LinkedIn Profile: www.linkedin.com/in/sally-kenny
• Location: Greater Chicago Area, USA

9. Lakrisha Davis, MBA – Fractional CMO & Brand Strategist

Lakrisha Davis is a Fractional CMO and Brand Strategist specializing in branding, marketing, content strategy, and sales enablement for B2B and B2C businesses. As the founder of Lakrisha Davis Enterprises Inc., she works with small to mid-sized companies to develop tailored solutions that drive growth and improve brand visibility. Her approach combines strategic planning with hands-on execution, helping businesses navigate competitive markets and achieve results.

Core Focus

Lakrisha specializes in fractional CMO services, brand development, and marketing strategy, helping businesses enhance their market presence and accelerate growth through tailored solutions.

Operational Marketing Highlights

• Provides comprehensive marketing strategies for clients across B2B and B2C sectors.
• Mentors executives and teams in branding, sales enablement, and content strategy.
• Executes data-driven campaigns to optimize engagement, conversion, and customer retention.

CMO Achievements

• Successfully guided small businesses through brand positioning, market growth, and sales process optimization.
• Empowered clients in professional services to scale operations and increase profitability.
• Developed and implemented content strategies that significantly improved customer engagement and brand visibility.

Education and Work Experience

• Education: Lakrisha holds an MBA in Human Resources Management and Services from Keller Graduate School of Management of DeVry University and a Professional in Human Resources Certificate from DePaul University.
• Work Experience: Lakrisha is a Fractional CMO at Diosa Ara. She also provides Client Strategy & Growth Consulting and works as a Content Strategist & Brand Consultant at Lakrisha Davis Enterprises Inc.

Job History

• Fractional CMO at Diosa Ara (2025 – Present): Leading marketing strategies and driving brand growth for clients.
• Client Strategy & Growth Consulting at Lakrisha Davis Enterprises Inc. (2016 – Present): Provides strategic consulting to small businesses in B2B and B2C sectors.
• Content Strategist & Brand Consultant at Lakrisha Davis Enterprises Inc. (2016 – Present): Develops content strategies and branding initiatives that resonate with target audiences.

Other Experience

Lakrisha has mentored over 65 private clients and led group classes focused on business planning, branding, and sales. She also writes and delivers keynote speeches and custom training for corporate clients, fostering both business and personal growth.

Contact Information

• LinkedIn Profile: www.linkedin.com/in/lakrishadavis
• Location: Chicago, Illinois, USA

How to Choose the Right CMO for Chicago

When selecting a CMO for your business in Chicago, it’s essential to focus on skills and attributes that align with the local market dynamics:

Industry Experience

The CMO should have a strong understanding of your specific industry, whether it’s tech, finance, healthcare, or retail. Their experience will help them navigate Chicago’s diverse business landscape and drive relevant marketing strategies.

Digital Proficiency

Given Chicago’s increasing shift to digital-first strategies, choosing a CMO with a proven track record in digital marketing, social media, e-commerce, and data analytics is critical. They should be able to implement strategies that leverage digital tools and platforms to drive engagement, sales, and customer loyalty.

Local Knowledge and Network

The right CMO should have deep knowledge of Chicago’s local market trends, consumer behaviors, and regional competition. Their local connections and understanding of the market will be valuable in executing effective campaigns.

Leadership and Adaptability

In a market like Chicago, where industries are continuously changing, the CMO should have strong leadership skills to guide and align teams. They should be adaptable and capable of pivoting quickly in response to emerging trends and changes in consumer behavior.

Cultural Fit

Chicago’s business environment thrives on collaboration and innovation. A CMO who fits your company’s culture and values will be crucial in driving brand consistency and fostering internal and external relationships that lead to sustained growth.

Data-Driven Decision Making

In a data-rich environment like Chicago, selecting a CMO with expertise in using data analytics to inform decisions is key. They should be able to analyze market insights, consumer trends, and campaign performance to continually optimize marketing efforts and deliver measurable results.

By selecting a CMO who possesses these skills and understands the unique aspects of the Chicago market, your business will be equipped to successfully navigate the challenges of a competitive, fast-paced environment.

The Importance of a CMO in Chicago

Chicago is a diverse, competitive market with a wide range of industries. A CMO in this city plays a crucial role in:

• Market Knowledge: Understanding the various industries in Chicago, from tech to manufacturing, enables a CMO to create targeted strategies for each sector.
• Competition: With many businesses operating in the city, a CMO helps companies stay competitive by using data-driven insights to develop effective marketing strategies.
• Digital Marketing: As businesses in Chicago embrace digital tools, a CMO leads the transition to digital-first marketing strategies that align with consumer behavior and technology trends.
• Talent and Team Leadership: Chicago offers a strong pool of marketing professionals, and a CMO is responsible for managing and leading teams to implement successful marketing campaigns.
• Consumer Understanding: Chicago’s diverse population requires marketing that resonates with various demographics. A CMO is key in crafting campaigns that engage and convert.

Conclusion

Chicago is a competitive market, making the role of a fractional CMO critical for businesses aiming to scale and stand out. The best fractional CMOs in the city bring industry knowledge, digital expertise, and leadership skills, ensuring companies can develop effective strategies, stay ahead of competition, and grow sustainably. Choosing the right fractional CMO can be a game-changer, providing businesses with the guidance they need without the full-time commitment.

FAQ

What is a fractional CMO?

A fractional CMO is a part-time or contract marketing executive who provides strategic leadership and guidance without the full-time cost. They focus on driving growth, optimizing marketing strategies, and leading teams on specific projects.

Why hire a fractional CMO in Chicago?

Chicago’s diverse business landscape requires tailored marketing strategies. A fractional CMO can help navigate the competitive market, providing insights and expertise in industries like tech, manufacturing, and consumer services without the cost of a full-time executive.

What industries benefit from fractional CMOs in Chicago?

Fractional CMOs in Chicago are beneficial to industries including tech, finance, healthcare, CPG, food & beverage, and startups. Their expertise helps businesses grow and adapt to changing market conditions.

How do I find the best fractional CMO in Chicago?

Look for a fractional CMO with relevant industry experience, proven leadership, and expertise in digital marketing. They should be data-driven, adaptable, and able to guide teams toward effective execution.