Hiring a full-time marketing executive isn’t always practical, especially for small or growing businesses. If your company needs high-level marketing leadership but not on a full-time basis, a fractional CMO might be the perfect fit. In this article, we’ll break down what a fractional CMO does, list top experts in Washington, and help you figure out how to choose the right one.
What is a Fractional CMO?
A fractional CMO, or Chief Marketing Officer, is a part-time marketing leader who works with businesses that need expert strategy without the cost of a full-time executive. Instead of hiring someone to sit in your office 40 hours a week, you get access to high-level marketing guidance for just the time you need.
Fractional CMOs help with things like setting marketing goals, creating campaigns, leading your team, managing branding, and improving customer outreach. They often work with startups, small to mid-sized companies, or businesses going through a period of change.
It’s a flexible setup. You can bring them on for a few hours a week, a few days a month, or during a specific growth phase. It’s all about getting the right expertise without overspending.
NUOPTIMA’s C-Suite Connect: Fractional CMOs for Washington’s Growth-Minded Businesses
NUOPTIMA’s C-Suite Connect, led by founder Alexej Pikovsky, brings a new level of marketing leadership to Washington-based businesses by connecting them with rigorously vetted, high-impact fractional CMOs. Designed specifically for founder-led companies, our network features marketing executives who drive measurable growth through data-driven strategy and precise execution.
Each CMO in our network is carefully selected through a multi-step evaluation process personally overseen by Alexej, ensuring that only the most qualified and culturally aligned professionals are matched with our clients. Our vetting process includes:
- Track Record Review: Confirming a strong history of marketing leadership and business growth.
- Strategic Case Study Assessment: Testing real-world marketing decision-making and strategic thinking.
- Professional References: Verifying impact and reliability through in-depth reference calls.
- Culture Fit Interview: Ensuring values and communication style align with your team.
- Paid Trial Engagement: Demonstrating execution and results before a long-term commitment.
Only the top-performing CMOs are accepted into the C-Suite Connect program, ready to lead marketing functions that drive sustainable business success.
What Sets NUOPTIMA C-Suite Connect Spart
- Strategy + Execution: CMOs who bring both vision and hands-on implementation across campaigns, brand, and growth strategy.
- Washington Market Knowledge: Expertise in Washington’s diverse business environment, from startups in Seattle to established regional firms.
- Fast Turnaround: Matched with a hand-picked fractional CMO in just 7–10 days.
- Founder-First Matching: Each placement is reviewed by Alexej to ensure strategic and cultural alignment with your company.
Through C-Suite Connect, NUOPTIMA empowers Washington businesses to lead with clarity, scale with intention, and align marketing strategy with long-term growth.
Top Fractional CMOs for Washington Businesses
1. Jesse Stoddard
Jesse Stoddard is a dynamic fractional CMO and entrepreneur with more than 15 years of experience leading growth initiatives across home services and the automotive aftermarket industries. As the founder of both Stoddard Agency and AutoStyle Marketing, Jesse has developed repeatable systems and strategic frameworks that help small businesses scale with confidence. His marketing leadership blends high-level strategy with hands-on execution, giving founder-led companies the tools and clarity to grow sustainably.
Key Areas of Focus
- Marketing automation and CRM system builds (GoHighLevel and more)
- Strategy-first campaign development and planning
- Website optimization for higher conversions
- Lead generation for home service providers
- Industry-specific marketing for automotive restyling businesses
- Multi-segment messaging for retail, dealership, and fleet audiences
- Scalable systems and SOPs for predictable business growth
Career Highlights
- Founded Stoddard Agency, providing marketing systems for small and local service businesses
- Launched AutoStyle Marketing, a performance-focused agency for the automotive aftermarket sector
- Led marketing at Clean Crawls, delivering brand and conversion strategy for home performance services
- Created and scaled Action Fitness Camp, a multi-state fitness franchise
- Featured on podcasts and webinars including Media Champions, offering thought leadership on fractional CMO work
- Offers a bold client guarantee: continued service free of charge until lead and conversion goals are met
How Jesse Works
Jesse leads with strategy and scales through systems. Every engagement starts with a deep understanding of the client’s business goals, operational structure, and market opportunities. From there, he builds a clear roadmap backed by automation, CRM tools like GoHighLevel, and proven campaign frameworks that reduce complexity and increase return on investment.
He works closely with internal teams to ensure alignment and execution across channels, but also provides full-service support when needed. Known for his high energy and empathy, Jesse brings not only marketing leadership but also mentorship, helping founders lead with more confidence and less stress.
Education
- Bachelor’s Degree – University of Washington
- High School Diploma – Anacortes High School
Contacts
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-stoddard
2. Carmen L Williams
Carmen L Williams is a visionary fractional CMO, author, and speaker with over 25 years of experience driving growth in B2B, B2C, and e-commerce markets. Based in Washington, Carmen is known for her evolutionary approach to marketing strategy, blending proven frameworks with the latest AI tools to deliver stronger outcomes and sustainable results. As the Chief Evolution Officer at Evolve For Growth and Fractional CMO for multiple companies, she guides organizations through change and complexity with clarity and purpose.
Key Areas of Focus:
- Evolutionary marketing strategy and growth frameworks
- AI-integrated demand generation programs
- Positioning and messaging for complex, tech-driven industries
- Full-funnel optimization and campaign performance tracking
- Culture-driven leadership and change management
- Media planning, attribution, and conversion architecture
Career Highlights
- Serves as Fractional CMO for DayEDigital and other fast-growing firms
- Chief Evolution Officer and founder of Evolve For Growth, a consultancy helping businesses adapt through evolutionary marketing
- Led product marketing and growth initiatives as Co-CMO at Zuper
- CMO at REtokens, focused on digital transformation in real estate
- Built high-performance growth strategies at Apex Learning, a leading ed-tech company
- Frequent speaker and published author on adaptive leadership and marketing evolution
How Carmen Works
Carmen begins by assessing the adaptive environment of each organization, understanding its market, culture, structure, and unified field of influence. From there, she applies her Evolutionary Marketing model, aligning brand and business goals through clear positioning, scalable messaging, and integrated campaign strategies.
She leads with a mix of empathy and conceptual thinking, balancing business rigor with human understanding. Carmen thrives in cross-functional environments and brings a collaborative mindset to both in-house teams and external stakeholders. Her clients value her ability to turn vision into action, especially in industries navigating rapid change.
Education
- Mini-MBA, Digital Marketing – Rutgers University
- Master’s in the Science of Evolution – Unicist.org
- Master’s – Institute of Canadian Advertising
- Diploma in Technology
Contacts
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carmenlwilliams
3. Liz Galloway
Liz Galloway is a Washington-based fractional CMO, public relations expert, and creative director with a bold flair for visual storytelling and immersive brand experiences. With a career that spans high-profile global partnerships, nonprofit leadership, and multimedia content production, Liz helps brands grow through a unique blend of strategic marketing, earned media, and storytelling. She is especially known for shaping brands that push boundaries in industries like adventure travel, hospitality, lifestyle, and wellness.
Key Areas of Focus
- Public relations and earned media strategy
- Video and drone storytelling (FAA Part 107 Certified)
- AI-integrated marketing and automation
- Luxury, hospitality, and adventure brand positioning
- Strategic partnerships and event production
- Campaign management across digital, social, and traditional media
Career Highlights
- Fractional CMO and strategist for international brands, events, and nonprofits
- Organizer and Licensee of TEDxBelltown Women, curating speakers and producing high-impact community events
- TV and podcast host of Trending Today, syndicated on Bloomberg, A&E, and Fox Business
- Director of Marketing & Communications for UnCruise Adventures, leading sustainability-driven PR and lead generation campaigns
- Created global brand activations for Airbnb Citizen Science, Antarctic Logistics, and Hospes Hotels
- Winner of the Magellan Gold Award for Best Crisis Communication and Magellan Silver for Best New Ad Campaign
How Liz Works
Liz leads with creativity, energy, and purpose. She starts by identifying a brand’s core message and builds a strategic media and content plan that highlights unique strengths. Her ability to move seamlessly from planning to execution ensures a smooth, collaborative experience for her clients.
She brings together visual production, event strategy, and public relations into one cohesive brand experience. Whether working with nonprofits, luxury travel brands, or startups, Liz’s style is hands-on, results-driven, and rooted in storytelling that resonates. Her leadership also shines through her commitment to community engagement, inclusivity, and using media as a tool for social change.
Education
- Bachelor of Business in Hospitality & Journalism – AIU/SLCC/U of U
- Professional Rotor Wing Pilot, AAS in Aviation Management – ULA/SLCC
- FAA Certified Drone Pilot – Part 107
Contacts
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lizgalloway
4. Adam Jones
Adam Jones is a results-driven fractional CMO and founder of Pullman Marketing, known for helping businesses align their marketing and technology for measurable ROI. Based in Pullman, Washington, Adam brings over a decade of leadership in digital strategy, advertising, team building, and systems development. He works with growing companies across a variety of sectors to clarify strategy, streamline execution, and unify internal teams under a results-first marketing plan.
Key Areas of Focus
- Marketing and tech alignment for real ROI
- Ad strategy and digital infrastructure
- Website optimization and SEO
- Email marketing and automation
- B2B lead generation and CRM strategy
- Team leadership and marketing operations
Career Highlights
- Founded Pullman Marketing, helping businesses implement holistic, tech-integrated growth strategies
- Fractional CMO for clients in construction, auto, finance, agriculture, and wellness
- Organizer and presenter at Business Blend, Pullman’s monthly networking and education series
- Scaled advertising and event strategies for regional NAPA franchise operations
- Past PPC consultant and digital advisor for clients in the music and artisan industries
- Former web coordinator and media producer at Washington State University, managing web analytics and video marketing
How Adam Works
Adam is known for simplifying marketing strategy so internal teams can confidently execute and scale. He begins by evaluating a client’s full digital ecosystem: ads, content, website, and backend systems, and creates a roadmap that connects everything to business outcomes.
With a background in videography and technical production, he also brings a hands-on understanding of content creation and campaign execution. Adam believes great marketing happens when strategy and execution move together, and he’s built a career around helping businesses make that happen.
Education
- Bachelor’s Degree in Communication, Broadcast Production – Washington State University
- AAS, Associate Degree – Olympic College
- Certified in Inbound Marketing (HubSpot Academy)
- Mental Health First Aid (National Council for Mental Wellbeing)
Contacts
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/adammosesjones
5. Christie Perrott
Christie Perrott is a seasoned fractional CMO, brand strategist, and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience leading global marketing and communications programs. Based in Vancouver, Washington, Christie specializes in purpose-driven growth strategies that generate revenue, open new channels, and align brand storytelling with business goals. She has successfully transformed five organizations through exit-stage marketing and currently partners with a cohort of emerging and scaling businesses through her consultancy, Gnome.
Key Areas of Focus
- Brand positioning and narrative development
- Demand generation and customer acquisition
- Growth marketing for early- to mid-stage companies
- Operational marketing scale and team structure
- Recruitment marketing and employer branding
- Outdoor, lifestyle, and mission-driven brand leadership
Career Highlights
- Founder of Gnome, a marketing collective supporting incubation and brand-focused growth across multiple sectors
- Fractional CMO for TransWest, where she 8Xed driver pipeline Y/Y and built a scalable candidate acquisition program
- VP of Marketing at The Dyrt, leading CAC reduction by 40% while preparing for 4X marketplace growth
- Co-founder of ecotecture, a nature-driven design firm creating immersive outdoor hospitality spaces
- Built brand and demand strategies for multiple companies on the path to acquisition
- Champion for inclusive marketing leadership and sustainable brand development
How Christie Works
Christie begins with strategy, anchoring every engagement in a clear understanding of a company’s mission, audience, and desired trajectory. She connects long-term business objectives with smart execution plans, building the systems and teams required to sustain growth.
Her approach is both high-level and deeply operational. Whether leading OKR rollouts, restructuring creative workflows, or launching cross-functional campaigns, Christie brings a calm, strategic mindset focused on real business impact. She’s especially valued for her ability to unify scattered efforts and bring clarity to chaotic growth stages.
Education
- B.A. in Finance, Marketing, and Decision Sciences – Western Washington University
- Ongoing leadership and board involvement, including with the Women’s Center for Leadership
- Recognized for building inclusive growth environments and mentoring future marketing leaders
Contacts
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/christie-perrott
6. Romy Kilo Sarraf
Romy Kilo Sarraf is a seasoned fractional CMO with a powerful track record in e-commerce and marketing leadership for global consumer brands. With over 15 years of experience at world-renowned companies like L’Occitane and Godiva, Romy now partners with founders and CEOs to scale direct-to-consumer brands profitably and sustainably. She brings a rare combination of financial fluency, digital expertise, and deep brand insight to every engagement, helping teams unlock profitable growth through data-driven, customer-first strategies.
Key Areas of Focus
- E-commerce strategy and full P&L ownership for DTC brands
- Omni-channel customer acquisition and retention
- Cost-per-acquisition optimization and ROI-driven digital marketing
- CRM strategy and loyalty program development
- Go-to-market planning and execution for new product lines
- Forecasting, budgeting, and marketing-finance alignment
- Cross-functional team leadership and marketing org design
Career Highlights
- Led Godiva’s e-commerce team to 73% growth during supply chain disruption, optimizing cost-per-acquisition and full DTC operations
- Served as VP of E-Commerce & Direct Marketing at L’Occitane, where she implemented an omni-channel system driving 40,000+ store visits
- General Manager at Scentmate by DSM-Firmenich, launching a digital B2B2C solution and shaping go-to-market strategy
- Partnered with brands across kid’s products, fashion, home goods, and luxury markets through her fractional CMO services
- Successfully scaled brand strategies for profitable growth while controlling key cost drivers like shipping, digital marketing, and loyalty programs
How Romy Works
Romy blends strategic leadership with hands-on execution, making her a natural fit for growth-stage companies that need real traction. Her fractional model gives founders access to senior-level marketing and e-commerce leadership without the overhead of a full-time hire.
She begins by auditing performance across marketing, e-commerce, and finance to identify gaps and opportunities. Then, she aligns internal resources and external partners under a shared plan focused on measurable KPIs. From CAC optimization to digital channel expansion, Romy drives results with financial clarity, operational efficiency, and customer obsession.
Education
- Master in Management, Marketing Major – ESCP Business School
- Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing – Saint Joseph University of Beirut
Contacts
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/romykilosarraf
7. Jessica Jobes
Jessica Jobes is a growth marketing strategist and fractional CMO with a decade-long track record driving over $175 million in revenue for more than 800 companies. She specializes in transforming stalled go-to-market efforts into scalable growth systems, using high-velocity testing, behavior-backed data, and messaging optimization. Through her firm, Vital Velociti, Jessica partners with early-stage and enterprise teams to turn uncertainty into traction, leveraging her unique ability to identify signal faster and build repeatable revenue engines.
Key Areas of Focus
- Go-to-market strategy and execution for early-stage startups
- Conversion rate optimization and funnel acceleration
- Click-testing and behavior-backed messaging validation
- Paid acquisition and landing page performance
- Product-market fit discovery for SaaS and health tech
- Building scalable growth playbooks and testing frameworks
Career Highlights
- Helped generate over $175M+ in revenue across 800+ clients through her engineered approach to marketing
- Former growth leader at Microsoft, running 230K+ experiments per month on Bill Gates’s favorite engineering team
- Co-founded Mint CRO, a firm that made the Inc. 5000 list by training marketers and entrepreneurs in performance-based CRO
- Currently leads Vital Velociti, a Kirkland-based firm focused on fast GTM validation for tech startups and innovation teams
- Frequently tapped by stealth startups and VC-backed founders to define and execute early-stage growth playbooks
How Jessica Works
Jessica uses a scientific and results-driven framework to uncover what actually works in marketing and GTM. Her process often starts with low-risk, high-leverage experiments like subconscious click-testing to uncover friction points and untapped messaging opportunities.
From there, she guides teams in deploying landing pages, campaigns, and onboarding flows optimized for conversions. Jessica’s approach is hands-on and deeply collaborative, she doesn’t just advise, she actively works alongside founders and growth teams to ensure marketing is moving the needle. Her reputation is built on doing less, but smarter, and making every marketing dollar count.
Education
- Drake University – Pharmacy, Division I Softball Captain, 2-time Academic All-American
- University of Phoenix – Business Administration (Online Program)
- Kellogg School of Management – Segmentation & Value Proposition Course (Chicago)
Contacts
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jessicajobesseattle
8. Guy Nadivi
Guy Nadivi is a seasoned senior marketing executive and fractional CMO with a deep command of storytelling, demand generation, and technology-driven growth. With a career spanning IT automation, cybersecurity, and enterprise software, Guy is best known for blending data and creativity to craft impactful marketing strategies. From leading marketing excellence at ReversingLabs to producing the influential podcast “Intelligent Automation Radio,” he has built a reputation for transforming complex tech narratives into clear, high-converting messaging. He now serves businesses in need of strategic marketing direction with tactical execution, driving measurable outcomes across digital, content, and thought leadership initiatives.
Key Areas of Focus
- B2B demand generation strategy and lead nurturing
- Messaging and storytelling for complex technical products
- Go-to-market planning for software and automation platforms
- Content creation: podcasts, blogs, ebooks, and webinars
- Marketing operations and campaign performance optimization
- Analyst relations and thought leadership development
- Integrated campaign management across digital, email, social, and events
Career Highlights
- Produced and hosted “Intelligent Automation Radio,” a top-ranked podcast featuring thought leaders in automation, AI, and the future of work
- Led the growth and positioning of Ayehu, Inc., resulting in its acquisition by Insight Partners
- Developed and launched the Automation Exchange, a cloud library of 5,000+ automation components, including the first recommendation engine in the sector
- Oversaw marketing at ReversingLabs, supporting enterprise cybersecurity growth with a data-driven, omnichannel strategy
- Founded and scaled two technical consulting organizations, each growing revenue by over 700% in two years
How Guy Works
Guy brings both strategic acumen and executional precision to his fractional CMO work. Whether a company needs to define market positioning, refine product messaging, or ramp up pipeline generation, Guy starts by deeply understanding the business model and buyer persona. From there, he maps marketing activities to business priorities with clear performance metrics.
He often acts as both strategist and content creator, guiding the vision while rolling up his sleeves to produce key assets. This hands-on approach allows him to scale impact quickly, particularly in resource-constrained environments. He also mentors internal teams and aligns sales and marketing to accelerate results and accountability.
Education
- B.S. in Business Administration – Triple Option in Finance, Statistics, and Management Information Systems, California State University, Northridge
Contacts
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/guynadivi
9. Colin Millstone
Colin Millstone is a veteran marketing leader and fractional CMO with over three decades of cross-functional experience in business strategy, marketing, and technology. As the founder of Marketing as a Service (MaaS), Colin pioneered a scalable alternative to traditional agencies, one rooted in business alignment, flexibility, and efficiency. He has partnered with B2B technology firms, cybersecurity companies, SaaS platforms, and growth-stage ventures to develop practical marketing systems that drive revenue and brand clarity.
Key Areas of Focus
- Fractional CMO leadership for growth-stage and mid-market B2B firms
- Brand strategy, messaging frameworks, and visual identity refinement
- Integrated marketing execution across digital, social, events, and paid media
- Go-to-market planning for SaaS, cybersecurity, and enterprise technology
- Demand generation systems and funnel optimization
- Marketing operations and campaign performance analytics
- Agency alternative through the Marketing as a Service (MaaS) model
Career Highlights
- Founded Marketing as a Service (MaaS), a category-defining marketing delivery model that supports dozens of companies with strategic and tactical support
- Served as CMO at Mutare, Inc., a voice security company, leading marketing transformation and pipeline growth
- Held leadership roles at Altaviz and Netelligent, implementing integrated B2B marketing and brand strategies
- Launched On-Demand Marketing, an offering tailored to startups and SMBs needing fast brand updates with limited resources
- Worked across enterprise software, managed services, IT infrastructure, and cybersecurity, bringing a holistic view to technical marketing
How Colin Works
Colin takes a consultative, high-touch approach to every engagement. He begins by understanding business objectives, customer personas, and internal capabilities. From there, he builds a realistic, impact-driven marketing strategy, then executes alongside the team.
Unlike traditional agencies or siloed freelancers, Colin integrates directly into the client’s ecosystem. He brings leadership-level insight, mentors internal teams, manages external vendors when needed, and ensures marketing directly supports business development goals.
Education
- B.S.B.A. in Finance & Marketing, University of Denver – Daniels College of Business
- MBA, Fontbonne University
Contacts
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/colin-millstone
10. Jesse Swingle
Jesse Swingle is a dynamic fractional CMO and growth strategist with a strong track record of helping mission-driven startups, B2B brands, nonprofits, and public sector organizations scale through customer-centric marketing. With deep experience across brand strategy, demand generation, and marketing operations, Jesse is known for aligning sales, product, and marketing teams to create momentum and drive sustainable growth. As the founder of Cedar Collab, he now partners with clients to build marketing systems that work smarter especially in high-growth or resource-constrained environments.
Key Areas of Focus
- Fractional CMO leadership for B2B startups and social impact organizations
- Strategic brand positioning and audience messaging
- Integrated demand generation and sales enablement
- Growth marketing across emerging sectors and regulated markets
- Marketing platform development: Martech, SEO/SEM, CRM, and automation
- Investor relations, GTM planning, and board-level communication
- Copywriting, digital content, and high-touch customer engagement
Career Highlights
- Founded Cedar Collab, a marketing consultancy focused on nonprofits, higher ed, and emerging industries
- Led GTM and marketing transformation at POSaBIT, boosting quarterly revenue from $8.2MM to $13.6MM
- Head of Marketing at Ossia Inc., developing high-profile campaigns and sales tools for a wireless power tech firm
- Supported multiple M&A initiatives, product launches, and analyst relations strategies
- Built brand and digital presence for Insider Creations, helping spin off a product-led jewelry platform
- Recognized for aligning product, sales, and marketing across growth-stage companies and mission-led teams
How Jesse Works
Jesse approaches each engagement as both strategist and operator. He begins by identifying gaps in alignment between marketing, product, and sales, then creates a focused plan built around growth levers and core KPIs. Whether leading a small team or rebuilding an entire function, he balances quick wins with long-term scalability.
His style is collaborative, transparent, and action-oriented. Jesse is especially effective in organizations navigating transition, growth, retrenchment, or reinvention. He thrives when challenged to build systems that scale, enable teams to perform, and elevate brand value with clarity and purpose.
Education
- MBA, Leadership Executive Program – Seattle University
- Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science & Business – The University of British Columbia
Contacts
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jesseswingle
Why Fractional CMOs Are Right for Washington’s Business Scene
Washington has a mix of thriving tech companies, creative startups, and established local businesses. But not every business is ready or able to bring on a full-time marketing executive. That’s where a fractional CMO can make a big difference.
Cost-Effective Leadership
Hiring a full-time CMO can cost six figures or more. For many small to mid-sized companies, that’s just not realistic. A fractional CMO gives you the same level of expertise without the full-time salary. You only pay for what you need, which helps keep overhead low and ROI high.
Local Market Insight
A fractional CMO familiar with Washington’s unique markets – whether it’s Seattle’s tech scene or smaller business hubs across the state – can help you connect with the right audience. They understand local trends, consumer behavior, and regional challenges.
Scalable Support During Growth
As your business grows, your marketing needs change. A fractional CMO can jump in quickly to build or guide a strategy, and scale back when things stabilize. It’s flexible support that adjusts to your stage of growth.
Fresh Perspective Without Long-Term Commitment
Sometimes a business just needs a fresh set of eyes. A fractional CMO can spot opportunities, fix weak spots in your strategy, and bring new energy to your marketing efforts – all without the commitment of a long hiring process.
Access to a Wide Skill Set
Many fractional CMOs have worked across industries and with all types of teams. They bring a mix of skills, contacts, and experience that can help you get better results faster. Plus, they often have a network of other professionals (designers, writers, ad specialists) they can pull in as needed.
How to Choose the Right Fractional CMO
Finding the right fractional CMO can make a huge difference in your marketing results. Here’s what to look for when deciding who to bring on board.
1. Understand Your Needs First
Before you start your search, get clear on what you need help with. Are you looking to build a marketing strategy from scratch, launch a product, improve your brand, or lead a team? Knowing your goals will help you find someone with the right strengths.
2. Look for Relevant Experience
The best fractional CMOs have a track record of success. Look for someone who has worked with businesses similar to yours, whether by size, industry, or growth stage. Ask about past clients and specific results they’ve delivered.
3. Check for Strategic Thinking
You’re not just hiring a doer, you’re hiring a leader. A good fractional CMO should think long-term, align marketing with business goals, and know how to prioritize what will actually move the needle.
4. Strong Communication Skills Matter
Since they won’t be in-house full-time, communication is key. Your fractional CMO should be easy to reach, responsive, and able to explain complex marketing ideas in a way your team understands.
5. Ask About Their Network and Resources
Many fractional CMOs have a team of trusted freelancers or agencies they work with designers, ad specialists, content writers, and more. This can be a huge bonus if you need more support without hiring additional staff.
6. Look for Flexibility and Fit
Finally, personality and working style matter. You want someone who fits with your company culture, communicates well with your team, and can adapt as your business evolves.
Conclusion
Washington is home to a remarkable pool of fractional CMOs who bring deep expertise, strategic insight, and executional power to growing businesses. Whether you’re a startup seeking go-to-market clarity, a nonprofit aiming to scale your impact, or an established company facing new market challenges, these experts offer a flexible path to growth without the cost of a full-time executive.
Each CMO featured in this article brings a distinct approach, some specialize in high-growth SaaS and B2B ecosystems, while others focus on consumer products, e-commerce, or mission-driven sectors like education and public service. What they all have in common is a results-driven mindset, proven leadership, and the ability to align marketing with business outcomes.
FAQ
While a consultant typically provides advice or limited project support, a fractional CMO steps into a leadership role, often integrating into your team, owning outcomes, and managing execution. They are more embedded in the organization and are accountable for ongoing performance.
A business should consider hiring a fractional CMO when it needs experienced marketing leadership but isn’t ready to bring someone on full-time. This might be during a growth phase, a rebranding effort, a product launch, or after funding. It’s also common during times of restructuring or when a founder needs help building marketing infrastructure.
The right fractional CMO should have relevant industry experience, a clear track record of driving results, strong communication and leadership abilities, and the ability to adapt quickly to your business model. Cultural fit and strategic alignment are just as important as credentials.
Compensation models vary. Some fractional CMOs work on a monthly retainer, while others bill hourly or per project. The cost depends on the scope, expected time commitment, and the complexity of the role. Many offer scalable packages based on your needs and growth stage.
