Hiring a full-time Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) can be expensive, especially for startups or small businesses. That’s where a fractional CMO comes in. If you’re based in San Diego and need top-level marketing help without the full-time price tag, you’re in the right place. Let’s break down what a fractional CMO does, why it matters, and who some of the best ones are in the area.
What Is a Fractional CMO?
A fractional CMO is a part-time marketing executive who partners with your business to shape marketing strategy, lead your team, and drive growth. They offer the same high-level expertise as a full-time Chief Marketing Officer, but on a flexible schedule that fits your budget. It’s like having a seasoned marketing leader on your team, just without the full-time commitment or salary.
These professionals usually work with several companies at the same time, bringing a wide range of experience across industries. They’re especially helpful for businesses in growth mode, going through big changes, or launching something new. Whether you’re a startup or an established company needing fresh direction, a fractional CMO can deliver big results without breaking the bank.
NUOPTIMA – C-Suite Connect: Pre-Vetted Fractional CMOs for San Diego Businesses
At NUOPTIMA, we help founder-led businesses in San Diego find top-tier fractional CMOs through our flagship service, C-Suite Connect. This premier offering connects you with experienced, pre-vetted marketing leaders who bring strategic expertise and hands-on execution without the need for a full-time hire.
Founded by Alexej Pikovsky, NUOPTIMA has built a curated network of fractional CMOs who have successfully led companies through critical growth phases. Whether you’re launching a new product, repositioning your brand, or looking for more structure in your marketing operations, our CMOs are equipped to guide you. Every candidate in our network is vetted through a rigorous process personally overseen by Alexej to ensure quality, fit, and proven results.
To qualify for our bench, a CMO must have scaled a seven-to-nine-figure business and pass a five-step vetting process:
- Background check: Verifying a strong and proven track record
- Modelling exam: Testing strategic thinking and decision-making
- Reference calls: Confirming performance and credibility
- Culture fit interview: Ensuring alignment with your company’s values and vision
- Paid trial sprint: Demonstrating real-world execution under pressure
Only those who meet the highest standards become part of our network.
What Makes Us Different
- Strategy + Execution: Our CMOs don’t just plan – they deliver.
- Cross-industry experience: From SaaS to healthcare, our CMOs understand a wide range of business models.
- Speed: We match and onboard within 7–10 days, so you can move fast.
- Founder Alignment: Every placement is personally reviewed by Alexej to ensure both cultural and strategic fit.
C-Suite Connect gives San Diego businesses access to executive-level marketing leadership designed for growth, efficiency, and measurable results. Whether you’re scaling up or refining your strategy, NUOPTIMA is here to support your next stage.
Top Fractional CMOs for San Diego Businesses
1. Bryant Walker
With over 25 years of hands-on marketing experience, Bryant Walker is a standout fractional CMO based in San Diego who brings a rare blend of high-level strategy and tactical execution. Known for bridging the gap between vision and action, Bryant has helped companies of all sizes – from startups to Fortune 500s – achieve clarity, momentum, and meaningful results.
Industry-Spanning Experience
Bryant has led transformative marketing strategies across a wide range of industries including:
- Consumer packaged goods (CPG)
- Direct-to-consumer (DTC)
- Healthcare
- SaaS
- Entertainment
- B2B and enterprise sectors
He has worked with major brands like Microsoft, Petco, Paramount, Salesforce, Verizon, and numerous high-growth ventures, offering fresh perspectives and cross-sector insight that translate into powerful, scalable marketing strategies.
How Bryant Works
As founder of CallYourCMO and CEO of TAVO Media Group, Bryant doesn’t just build strategies – he leads integrated execution from the ground up. His approach is collaborative, agile, and always tied to business outcomes.
Core areas of expertise include:
- Brand development and positioning
- Full-funnel marketing strategy
- Omnichannel campaign execution
- CRM and performance marketing
- Team leadership and partner collaboration
- Market entry and growth planning
He is a firm believer in measurable impact – helping companies track performance through real KPIs, not vanity metrics.
Approach to San Diego Business
Deeply involved in the San Diego business community, Bryant frequently speaks at local business events and supports small to mid-sized companies through tailored strategy programs. His mentorship work with Founder Institute and passion for supporting mission-driven brands make him an ideal partner for organizations looking to grow with purpose.
Education and Leadership Style
Bryant holds a BA in Communication and Media Studies from San Diego State University and an AAS in Mass Communication from Grossmont College. He is known for being both a servant leader and a strategic powerhouse – bringing energy, clarity, and a get-it-done attitude to every engagement.
Whether your business needs to launch, pivot, or scale, Bryant brings structure to chaos and bold ideas to life with the kind of leadership that moves the needle.
Contacts
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/walkermedia
2. Marla Becker
Marla Becker is a seasoned fractional CMO based in San Diego with more than 13 years of experience across health technology, business consulting, and growth marketing. With a strong foundation in strategy and execution, Marla brings a unique blend of data fluency, storytelling, and design thinking to every engagement. She has led marketing and commercial strategy efforts across North America, Africa, and the Middle East.
Industry-Spanning Experience
Marla has held leadership roles at both early-stage and enterprise-level companies, with a sharp focus on innovation and cross-functional alignment. Her experience includes:
- Digital health and AI in clinical trials
- B2B SaaS and health platforms
- Product marketing and go-to-market strategy
- Commercial growth for mission-driven brands
She has held key positions at companies like Trially AI, Medable, and RubiconMD, helping shape go-to-market plans, drive product vision, and bring new healthtech solutions to market. Her work spans clinical operations, digital health platforms, and performance marketing for complex healthcare systems.
How Marla Works
As a fractional CMO, Marla approaches each engagement with a consultant’s mindset and an operator’s discipline. She aligns commercial, product, and delivery teams around shared goals and measurable outcomes.
Core areas of expertise include:
- Product and brand marketing
- Growth strategy and lead generation
- AI-driven campaign planning
- Cross-functional team alignment
- Commercial strategy and positioning
She builds strategies that don’t sit on a slide deck – they get implemented, tracked, and optimized with clear ownership and direction.
Approach to San Diego Business
Now based in San Diego, Marla is actively involved in the local health innovation ecosystem and supports organizations that focus on education, health equity, and sustainability. She brings a global mindset to local business challenges, helping companies in San Diego scale smarter and more strategically.
Education and Leadership Style
Marla holds a BA in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania, where she graduated magna cum laude, and an MBA from INSEAD. She is known for her ability to simplify complex ideas, lead with clarity, and drive measurable growth. Her approach is pragmatic, data-informed, and always centered on building solutions that stick.
From product launch to market expansion, Marla partners with leadership teams to move faster, think smarter, and build stronger brands.
Contacts
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/marlabecker
3. Kenny Peavy
Kenny Peavy is a seasoned fractional CMO based in the San Diego area with over 15 years of experience in strategic marketing, executive leadership, and operational consulting. He works closely with growth-stage and mid-market businesses to streamline their marketing efforts, boost profitability, and build systems that scale.
Industry-Spanning Experience
Kenny brings a strong background in aligning marketing with broader business functions, particularly in:
- B2B and enterprise services
- SaaS and technology
- Professional services
- Sales and revenue operations
As the founder of Big Rock Executive Consulting, Kenny leads marketing and operational strategy engagements across industries. He developed the Big Rock Method, a framework that helps organizations identify marketing inefficiencies, improve sales alignment, and turn untapped potential into measurable growth.
How Kenny Works
Kenny is both a strategist and an executor. He combines executive-level insight with a hands-on approach, helping clients develop and implement practical roadmaps that generate results.
Core areas of expertise include:
- Marketing and sales alignment
- Demand generation and content strategy
- Buyer journey optimization
- Performance marketing
- Brand positioning and analytics
He helps clients go beyond surface-level tactics, building systems that are not only effective but sustainable.
Approach to San Diego Business
Kenny works with companies across the San Diego region, helping local teams scale their reach while maintaining operational focus. His leadership style is grounded in clarity, accountability, and measurable outcomes. He also brings deep experience in coaching leadership teams and supporting nonprofit and community-driven initiatives through strategic marketing.
Education and Leadership Style
Kenny holds a master’s degree in Executive Leadership and Business Analytics from Johns Hopkins University and has completed executive education at Harvard Business School. His ability to connect marketing with finance, operations, and vision makes him a valuable partner to executive teams looking to grow smarter and faster.
From building out full-scale marketing systems to supporting product launches or market expansion, Kenny helps San Diego businesses find their edge and turn it into revenue.
Contacts
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennypeavy
4. Patrick R.
Patrick R. is a San Diego-based fractional CMO with over 15 years of experience building and scaling some of the most innovative wellness and consumer product brands in the market. With a track record rooted in startup success, he brings a deep understanding of how to grow brands from the ground up and position them for long-term, sustainable success.
Industry-Spanning Experience
Patrick has held leadership roles across high-growth CPG and e-commerce brands, with particular depth in wellness, natural food, and performance-based consumer goods. His past work includes:
- DTC and omni-channel brand growth
- Launch strategy and customer acquisition
- Subscription-based business models
- Brand development and retention marketing
He has worked with companies like MOSH, Atlas Bar, and Natalie’s Orchid Island Juice Company, helping them scale from early traction to category leadership. His brands have received recognition from Inc. Magazine, Shopify, Recharge, and NewHope Natural Media for both growth and innovation.
How Patrick Works
Patrick combines creativity with disciplined growth systems. As the founder of Jolly Robot, he collaborates closely with founders, CEOs, and in-house marketing teams to deliver full-funnel strategy and performance-driven results.
Core areas of expertise include:
- Go-to-market planning and brand positioning
- Customer acquisition and retention
- Tech stack integration and data reporting
- P&L ownership and media buying
- Performance marketing across Meta, Google, TikTok, and Amazon
He takes a hands-on approach with a focus on measurable growth, building systems that support long-term revenue and customer loyalty.
Approach to San Diego Business
With roots in San Diego, Patrick is tuned in to the local startup and wellness community. His experience launching DTC brands from the region gives him a strong pulse on what works for growth-minded businesses here. He brings a collaborative, high-EQ leadership style that resonates well with early-stage teams looking for clear strategy and reliable execution.
Education and Leadership Style
Patrick holds a degree in Public Relations and Advertising from San Diego State University. He is known for being a strategic thinker and creative problem-solver, with a founder-friendly mindset and a relentless drive for growth. He combines data, storytelling, and operational clarity to help brands find their edge and expand it at scale.
For emerging brands looking to unlock growth through better systems, sharper messaging, and smarter campaigns, Patrick brings a tested playbook and the leadership to execute it.
Contacts
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/pjroustan
5. Blythe Lawton
Blythe Lawton is a San Diego-based fractional CMO with more than two decades of experience helping businesses across industries reach meaningful growth milestones. She has led marketing strategy and execution for companies in fintech, healthcare, diagnostics, and consumer products, with a sharp focus on translating big ideas into clear, scalable marketing plans.
Industry-Spanning Experience
Blythe has worked with a wide range of high-growth companies, from fully funded startups to global B2B enterprises. Her career includes:
- Fintech and capital markets growth
- Brand and product marketing in healthcare and diagnostics
- Consumer and automotive verticals
- Integrated digital, retention, and sales enablement campaigns
She has helped lead organizations such as Vervent, Toyota Financial Services, Pathway Genomics, and PowerBar, guiding them through strategic brand evolution, product launches, and customer growth initiatives. Her work has consistently driven measurable outcomes like increased market share, stronger acquisition funnels, and multimillion-dollar revenue gains.
How Blythe Works
As founder of her own consultancy, Blythe works directly with executive leadership teams, PE-backed firms, and early-stage brands to develop and deploy marketing strategies that drive results.
Core areas of expertise include:
- Marketing strategy and brand transformation
- Product launches and growth campaigns
- Multi-channel digital execution
- B2B and DTC customer acquisition
- Cross-functional team leadership and coaching
Her style is action-oriented, with an emphasis on strategic alignment, clear KPIs, and fast turnaround. She builds marketing programs that are scalable, grounded in data, and tailored to support business goals from day one.
Approach to San Diego Business
Having worked with multiple companies across the San Diego region, Blythe is well-versed in the unique needs of local startups and mid-sized businesses. She brings both global insight and regional savvy, making her a valuable partner to brands navigating competitive growth landscapes.
Education and Leadership Style
Blythe earned her degree in Broadcast Journalism from Arizona State University and has completed ongoing development in global product management and business strategy. Her leadership is rooted in collaboration, clarity, and accountability. She is known for coaching executive teams, mentoring in-house marketers, and bringing fresh energy to companies at turning points.
For teams looking to accelerate their growth, rebrand strategically, or launch new offerings with confidence, Blythe offers a grounded, results-driven partnership.
Contacts
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/blythelawton
6. Vincent Ferraro
Vincent Ferraro is a San Diego-based fractional CMO with a deep legacy in global marketing leadership, product innovation, and brand strategy. With over two decades of executive experience at Fortune 100 companies like Hewlett-Packard and Kodak, Vincent has shaped and launched some of the most iconic technology brands worldwide.
Industry-Spanning Experience
Vincent’s career spans both B2B and B2C sectors, with a strong foundation in high tech, consumer electronics, software, imaging, and enterprise solutions. He has led brand strategy, global marketing, and product development efforts for multibillion-dollar business units, covering:
- Product ideation, launch, and lifecycle strategy
- Global and regional marketing across 100+ countries
- Digital transformation and omnichannel programs
- Demand generation, strategic partnerships, and media
At HP, he was instrumental in scaling legendary printer brands such as LaserJet, DeskJet, PhotoSmart, and OfficeJet. At Kodak, he served as global CMO during a period of massive restructuring and transformation, overseeing $4B in marketing and product operations.
How Vincent Works
Vincent partners with founder-led businesses, boards, and emerging ventures to craft strategy and structure for growth. His fractional roles focus on scaling marketing maturity, sharpening brand positioning, and driving GTM performance.
Core areas of expertise include:
- Strategic planning and market analysis
- Full-funnel marketing and demand generation
- Brand architecture and messaging
- Board advisory and executive coaching
- Cross-functional leadership and team transformation
He is known for building marketing engines that align with business goals, scale with agility, and reflect authentic leadership.
Approach to San Diego Business
With deep roots in the San Diego business and academic communities, Vincent serves as an advisor, investor, and educator. His local engagements include teaching at San Diego State University’s Fowler College of Business and advising early-stage companies through regional incubators and angel networks. He brings a blend of big-company rigor and startup empathy that resonates with San Diego’s diverse innovation ecosystem.
Education and Leadership Style
Vincent holds an MBA from Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business and a BS in Business Administration from San Diego State University, where he graduated cum laude. He has served on multiple advisory boards, including the CMO Council and SDSU’s College of Business.
Vincent’s leadership style is clear, decisive, and mission-aligned. He balances strategic thinking with executional depth and thrives in environments where innovation, speed, and accountability matter most. For organizations looking to drive transformation, rethink product strategy, or elevate marketing with confidence, Vincent delivers both legacy experience and forward-thinking insight.
Contacts
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/vlferraro
7. Paul Frugé II
Paul Frugé II is a San Diego-based fractional CMO and brand strategist with over 20 years of experience leading high-impact marketing and business development across entertainment, technology, nonprofit, and consumer industries. Known for transforming brands into cultural movements, Paul blends executive leadership with creative storytelling and data-driven strategy.
Industry-Spanning Experience
Paul has held senior leadership roles at organizations including Cartoon Network, Funimation, Project HOPE, and HOOPTEQ. His diverse background spans:
- Streaming and home entertainment
- SaaS, apps, and digital platforms
- Nonprofit and cause-driven marketing
- Consumer products, retail, and licensing
- Event marketing and fan engagement
From launching anime franchises to leading global health campaigns, Paul consistently brings cultural insight, strategic clarity, and creative energy to every initiative.
How Paul Works
Paul operates at the intersection of strategy, storytelling, and growth. In his roles at Fractional Evolved (f/EVO) and HOOPTEQ, he delivers marketing systems that are both measurable and meaningful.
Core areas of expertise include:
- Brand strategy and go-to-market planning
- Community-powered marketing and influencer campaigns
- B2B and B2C marketing across digital and traditional media
- Strategic partnerships and affiliate programs
- Content development, analytics, and performance optimization
Paul is known for helping brands connect authentically with audiences by turning campaigns into conversations and customers into advocates.
Approach to San Diego Business
With deep roots in the San Diego innovation and entertainment scenes, Paul brings a culturally fluent, community-first approach to regional brands. Whether launching a sports tech product or scaling a nonprofit message, he understands how to navigate San Diego’s creative, tech, and mission-driven ecosystems. He has also participated in regional startup accelerators and is a frequent speaker and mentor for emerging marketers and entrepreneurs.
Education and Leadership Style
Paul holds a BA in Communications from the University of Georgia and an MBA in International Business and Marketing from American InterContinental University, where he was the honored class speaker. His leadership style is rooted in authenticity, clarity, and mentorship.
As a coach and board member, he empowers teams to grow with purpose, while staying aligned to brand vision and business outcomes. He leads with heart and precision, combining strategic thinking with executional excellence. For brands ready to elevate their marketing into a powerful growth engine, Paul offers both the insight and experience to lead transformation.
Contacts
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/paulfrugeii
8. James Hickey
James Hickey is a San Diego-based fractional CMO with more than 15 years of experience driving digital transformation for startups, entrepreneurs, and growth-stage businesses. He is known for combining digital strategy with lead generation expertise to help brands expand their online presence and turn visibility into measurable growth.
Industry-Spanning Experience
James has worked across a wide variety of industries, with a focus on helping early-stage businesses and retail brands sharpen their digital strategy. His background includes:
- Lead generation and conversion-focused marketing
- SEO, Google Ads, and content marketing
- Social media strategy and campaign execution
- Marketing automation and CRM system integration
- Online brand development for service businesses and ecommerce
He has launched and scaled programs through his companies JMH Marketing Group and the Internet Marketing Training Center. His work spans coaching business owners, training marketing professionals, and directly leading campaigns that drive real customer acquisition.
How James Works
James takes a highly collaborative and educational approach, often working closely with founders, business owners, and small marketing teams to implement effective systems and strategies. He builds and optimizes marketing engines that deliver leads, drive revenue, and position brands to grow sustainably.
Core areas of expertise include:
- Social media and digital channel growth
- Website funnel optimization and lead capture
- Email marketing and automation strategy
- Sales enablement and personal branding
- Go High Level and Kartra campaign development
James blends digital know-how with strong communication and teaching skills. Whether he is advising as a CMO or leading workshops, he focuses on empowering clients to make confident, data-driven decisions.
Approach to San Diego Business
A long-time member of the San Diego business community, James is also the founder of SD Networking Events, a platform that connects local professionals across sectors. His deep roots in the region give him a clear sense of what early and mid-stage businesses need to scale, build visibility, and develop lasting customer relationships.
Education and Leadership Style
James studied Internet and Social Media Marketing at PRO U and has completed extensive certifications in Google Ads, SEO, and digital campaign strategy. He is recognized for his energy, clarity, and practical coaching style, making him a valuable mentor to teams building their digital muscle.
For startups and business owners ready to elevate their digital presence, generate more leads, and optimize their marketing operations, James brings a rare blend of experience, insight, and hands-on support.
Contacts
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sdccpro
9. Tony Yang
Tony Yang is a San Diego-based fractional CMO with over 20 years of B2B marketing and sales experience, particularly in SaaS and high-growth startups. Known as a full stack marketer, Tony brings deep expertise across demand generation, go-to-market execution, and marketing operations. He currently serves as Head of Growth at Mucker Capital while also leading his own company, RevOptica, and advising startups across multiple industries.
Industry-Spanning Experience
Tony has a strong foundation in building scalable marketing systems for early- and growth-stage companies. His experience spans:
- Demand generation and revenue marketing
- Account-based marketing (ABM) and product-led growth (PLG)
- Marketing and revenue operations
- B2B SaaS go-to-market strategy
- Sales development and enablement programs
He has served in executive roles at startups like Mintigo (acquired by Anaplan) and Qordoba (now Writer), and continues to advise venture-backed companies across verticals. His consulting portfolio includes work with SalesIntel, Shiji Group, Growegy, and Tocca, among others.
How Tony Works
As a fractional CMO, Tony partners directly with executive teams to build go-to-market systems that drive predictable pipeline and revenue. Through his consultancy and leadership at RevOptica, he helps clients visualize buyer journeys, optimize conversion paths, and align sales and marketing.
Core areas of expertise include:
- Multi-channel demand generation strategy
- ABM and buyer journey analytics
- Marketing automation and CRM alignment
- GTM playbooks and leadership coaching
- Data-driven campaign execution
He is known for a strategic, systems-oriented approach that helps clients build smarter, faster-growing marketing machines with minimal guesswork.
Approach to San Diego Business
Tony’s long-standing ties to Southern California’s tech and startup ecosystem give him insight into the challenges and opportunities unique to San Diego-based companies. As a mentor at several accelerators and a guest lecturer at USC Marshall, he brings a balance of hands-on execution and ecosystem awareness that supports regional business growth.
Education and Leadership Style
Tony holds an MBA in High-Tech Entrepreneurship and Marketing from USC’s Marshall School of Business, as well as a master’s degree in Information Systems Management. He also earned dual BAs in Economics and Chinese Studies from UC San Diego. Recognized as a thought leader in B2B marketing, he has spoken at events like GTM Summit, RevSummit, and FlipMyFunnel, and has been featured on multiple marketing influencer lists.
With a reputation for clarity, curiosity, and executional excellence, Tony is a trusted partner for growth-stage companies that want to scale efficiently and intelligently.
Contacts
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/tones810
10. Paul English
Paul English is a San Diego-based fractional CMO with more than 20 years of experience leading brand development and go-to-market strategy for product-focused businesses. He specializes in working with small to mid-sized companies that are ready to scale through sharper messaging, focused strategy, and integrated marketing execution. His background spans industries from sports and apparel to SaaS, healthcare, and consumer goods.
Industry-Spanning Experience
Paul has shaped marketing success for global brands and growth-stage ventures alike. His professional background includes leadership roles and consulting engagements with:
- Unilever, Callaway Golf, Taylormade-Adidas, Easton
- Retail and SaaS platforms (Xenia POS, DRB, UpShop)
- Consumer health, medical, and wellness brands (Jefferson Dental, L-Nutra, Chill Frog CBD)
- Manufacturing, environmental services, and DTC categories
Through his roles with GO Grow, his independent consultancy, and companies like Fly Rides USA and Franklin 500, Paul has consistently helped businesses align strategy with execution and drive long-term brand equity.
How Paul Works
As a fractional CMO, Paul brings a mix of high-level brand vision and day-to-day marketing leadership. He offers a full CMO scope on a flexible basis, guiding companies through key growth phases with tailored support.
Core areas of expertise include:
- Brand positioning and narrative development
- Customer journey mapping and marketing activation
- GTM planning and execution
- Simple, scalable frameworks for team alignment
- Leadership development and cross-functional integration
Paul is known as a “player’s coach,” blending mentorship with action plans to energize marketing teams and focus efforts on what moves the needle.
Approach to San Diego Business
With roots in Southern California, Paul brings a regional awareness and direct experience working with San Diego-based brands, especially in lifestyle, sports, and wellness sectors. His familiarity with both brick-and-mortar retail and e-commerce makes him a versatile partner for companies balancing physical presence with digital growth.
Education and Leadership Style
Paul holds an MBA in Marketing from the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business and a BBA in Marketing from the University of Notre Dame. His leadership philosophy centers on clarity, creativity, and collaboration. He is valued for his approachable, team-first mindset and his ability to translate vision into execution without unnecessary complexity.
For San Diego businesses aiming to grow with clarity and creativity, Paul offers both the experience and the leadership to guide that journey.
Contacts
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/penglish1
11. Bill Byrne
Bill Byrne is a San Diego-based fractional CMO and public relations strategist with more than 25 years of experience creating omni-channel campaigns that deliver high-impact results. As the founder and managing director of Remedy Public Relations, he has helped brands across consumer tech, lifestyle, financial services, and healthcare punch above their weight in earned media and visibility. His work consistently connects products and services with the right audiences, generating real momentum and measurable growth.
Industry-Spanning Experience
Bill’s career spans both global corporations and ambitious startups. He has built and led PR campaigns for a wide spectrum of industries, including:
- Consumer products and CPG
- Technology and SaaS
- Real estate and finance
- Action sports and lifestyle (surf, snow, yoga, fitness)
- Health and wellness
- Environmental and DEI initiatives
He has worked with high-profile brands like Sony, Skullcandy, Burton, P&G, Nixon, Therabody, and Monster Energy, as well as growth-stage companies looking to scale brand exposure fast. His programs have landed clients everywhere from national TV segments to targeted influencer placements.
How Bill Works
Bill provides strategic guidance and tactical execution for brands seeking high-return PR and communications leadership. Whether he’s acting as a full fractional CMO or focused on earned media strategy, he remains hands-on and agile.
Core strengths include:
- Media strategy and PR program development
- Affiliate marketing integration and influencer collaboration
- Brand storytelling and messaging
- Thought leadership campaigns and podcast relations
- Crisis communications and reputation management
- GTM planning and investor positioning
He works closely with internal teams to uncover story assets, align marketing with business objectives, and build sustainable visibility across all key channels.
Approach to San Diego Business
Having led Remedy PR from San Diego for over a decade, Bill has a deep connection with the region’s business ecosystem. He understands how to grow locally rooted brands and bring national attention to emerging players. His network of media, content creators, and community leaders gives him unique insight into what resonates across San Diego’s competitive industries.
Education and Leadership Style
Bill holds a degree in TV/Radio Communications and Public Relations from Ithaca College, with further credentials in social media strategy from the University of San Francisco. He’s known for his direct, high-integrity style and his practical understanding of what makes PR campaigns successful. Frequently featured on industry lists from Cision, PR Newswire, and Prezly, Bill is recognized as a leader who blends smart strategy with real-world results.
For brands seeking media traction, marketing leadership, and brand authority, Bill offers a proven playbook that delivers exposure where it matters most.
Contacts
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/billbyrne
12. Yannick Claereboudt
Yannick Claereboudt is a San Diego-based fractional CMO and strategic advisor with more than 25 years of global marketing experience. She brings a strong mix of brand leadership, innovation strategy, and cross-functional team building to organizations navigating complex markets. Her focus is on helping life sciences and tech companies define clear growth paths through customer insight, data-driven planning, and marketing programs that deliver results.
Industry-Spanning Experience
Yannick has led marketing and innovation initiatives for both Fortune 500 companies and growth-stage startups across the globe. Her expertise spans:
- Life sciences, diagnostics, and healthcare innovation
- B2B technology, SaaS, and communication services
- Enterprise software and information management
- Multinational teams and multicultural markets
She held leadership roles at Invetech (a Danaher company), Avaya, and Lucent Technologies, where she built marketing teams from the ground up and scaled global demand generation programs. As founder of Clearsight, she now works directly with executive teams to deliver measurable outcomes across brand, innovation, and marketing performance.
How Yannick Works
Yannick partners with companies at strategic inflection points. Her work focuses on aligning insights, strategy, and execution to help brands grow with clarity and purpose.
Her areas of specialization include:
- Voice of the customer and segmentation frameworks
- Innovation strategy and product-market fit
- Integrated brand and demand generation planning
- Data and analytics for marketing decision-making
- Global team leadership and change management
She is known for transforming scattered marketing functions into aligned, high-performing systems that support revenue and customer growth.
Approach to San Diego Business
Living and working in San Diego, Yannick is plugged into the region’s life sciences and tech communities. She supports businesses looking to scale with strategic direction and global reach, bringing local market savvy with a world-class marketing perspective.
Education and Leadership Style
Yannick holds an Executive MBA from NYU Stern School of Business and additional training in product strategy from Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management. She is fluent in English, French, and Dutch, and has built and led diverse teams in the US, Europe, and Asia. Known for her strategic thinking and collaborative leadership, she helps companies implement big ideas with practical focus, even under tight resources.
For companies ready to align innovation and execution, Yannick offers the insight, structure, and leadership to turn potential into performance.
Contacts
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/yclaereboudt
Why Fractional CMOs Work for San Diego Businesses
San Diego is home to a thriving mix of startups, established companies, and high-growth industries. From biotech and healthtech to consumer brands and professional services, the region’s business landscape is full of momentum, but also requires strategic agility. That’s where fractional CMOs come in.
Flexible Leadership for Growing Companies
Many San Diego companies are in growth mode but may not be ready to commit to a full-time executive. A fractional CMO gives you access to senior-level marketing leadership without the long-term cost of a full-time hire. It’s a smart way to scale your marketing strategy while staying lean.
Built-In Industry Expertise
Fractional CMOs working in San Diego often bring deep experience in the region’s key industries, including life sciences, SaaS, DTC, and wellness. They understand the nuances of regulated markets, customer behavior, and competitive dynamics specific to the area, and can hit the ground running without a long onboarding period.
Speed, Strategy, and Execution
San Diego companies often need to move fast, whether it’s launching a product, expanding into new markets, or optimizing a funnel. A fractional CMO blends strategy with hands-on execution, helping you build systems, campaigns, and teams that deliver results quickly and sustainably.
Access to Talent Without Relocation
Hiring a top-tier marketing leader from outside San Diego can be costly and time-consuming. Fractional CMOs already based in or familiar with the region offer immediate access to executive-level skills, often with local connections that benefit hiring, partnerships, or media exposure.
Adaptable to Your Business Stage
Whether you’re a bootstrapped startup, a VC-backed scale-up, or an established business in transition, a fractional CMO can meet you where you are. They’re used to working across a variety of business stages and structures, and know how to tailor strategy based on what your company truly needs next.
In a dynamic business ecosystem like San Diego, a fractional CMO offers the right mix of insight, flexibility, and execution power, making them an ideal fit for brands looking to grow with confidence.
How to Choose the Right Fractional CMO
Choosing the right fractional CMO can make a huge difference in your company’s growth trajectory. The key is finding someone who not only has the skills and experience but also fits your culture and understands your specific business goals. Here’s how to narrow it down.
1. Look for Relevant Industry Experience
Start by identifying CMOs who have worked in your industry or with similar business models. If you’re in biotech, SaaS, DTC, or professional services, you want someone who understands the market, language, and customer behavior that drive success in that space. Ask about past clients, challenges they’ve solved, and measurable outcomes.
2. Evaluate Strategic and Executional Strength
The best fractional CMOs can both develop high-level strategy and roll up their sleeves to get work done. Ask how they approach go-to-market planning, team structure, customer acquisition, and performance tracking. You want someone who can balance vision with execution.
3. Match Communication Style and Culture
Because fractional CMOs often work closely with founders and leadership teams, it’s essential that they match your company’s culture and communication style. During discovery calls, pay attention to how they listen, explain ideas, and respond to feedback. You need a partner who adds clarity, not complexity.
4. Check Their Track Record
Great fractional CMOs come with proof. Look for a track record of helping businesses scale, launch, or rebrand successfully. Ask for case studies or references that show they can deliver real-world impact, not just advice.
5. Understand Their Process
Every fractional CMO has their own rhythm. Some work on a monthly retainer with weekly check-ins, while others might focus on short-term sprints or specific deliverables. Make sure their working style fits with how your team operates and what your priorities are.
6. Make Room for a Test Period
When possible, start with a short engagement or project. This gives you a chance to see how they work, test alignment, and confirm they can drive results. A great CMO will welcome this approach and show their value quickly.
Choosing the right fractional CMO is about more than just credentials. It’s about finding a leader who aligns with your mission, fits into your workflow, and brings the experience to move your business forward without the overhead of a full-time hire.
Final Thoughts
If you’re building or scaling a business in San Diego, a fractional CMO can be one of the smartest investments you make. Whether you’re launching a product, expanding your brand, or needing clarity in your marketing strategy, these part-time leaders offer high-level expertise without the full-time cost. They bring structure, speed, and results, all while aligning closely with your company’s goals and team dynamics.
From seasoned strategists to hands-on operators, San Diego is home to a strong pool of fractional CMOs ready to help you grow. Take the time to choose the right fit, and you’ll gain more than just a consultant, you’ll gain a growth partner.
FAQ
Engagements can last anywhere from a few months to a year or more. Some companies use fractional CMOs to cover a leadership gap, while others keep them on long-term for ongoing growth support.
If you’re not ready for a full-time executive, a fractional CMO offers senior-level guidance at a lower cost. They can also help build your team, processes, and strategy so that when you’re ready to hire full-time, you’re set up for success.
Some do, especially if they’re local. Others work remotely with occasional in-person meetings. It depends on your preference, the nature of the work, and the CMO’s availability.
Absolutely. Most fractional CMOs collaborate directly with your internal marketing staff, sales, and leadership team to ensure alignment and execution across all areas of the business.
