Frequently asked questions

Are you wondering why you should consider a marketing expert? Or how our cost-effective approach can benefit your business? Perhaps you’re curious about our experience in your specific industry or the length of our typical engagements. We’ve got you covered.

Can I use the Activation Team without a CMO?

The Activation Team is designed to work under strategic leadership.

Without that direction, execution risks becoming fragmented and ineffective.

The integrated model ensures full alignment between strategy and delivery.
Can one Fractional CMO cover everything my marketing function needs?

A Fractional CMO leads the strategy and coordinates all marketing activity, supported by The Marketing Centre’s wider network and structured frameworks. Where execution capacity is needed, the Activation Team can be added to ensure strategy translates into consistent action without additional headcount.
Do we need to replace our CMO?

In most cases, no.

CMO’s CMO is designed specifically for situations where the existing leader is capable but needs strengthening at a more complex stage.
Does this replace our existing tools?

No.

It sits above your existing stack, improving how those tools are used.
How do I choose the right Fractional CMO provider?
The key question is not “who has the best CV”.

It is:

How is that experience supported?

Are you relying on one individual?

Or are you accessing a broader system of knowledge, frameworks and support?

Also consider:
- accountability for outcomes
- longevity of client relationships
- how decisions are made and supported
The answers will define the experience you get.
How do I find a Fractional CMO?

Finding a Fractional CMO involves identifying experienced marketing leaders who can seamlessly integrate into your business on a part-time basis. Look for professionals with a proven track record of driving growth, aligning marketing strategies with business goals, and delivering measurable results. The Marketing Centre provides access to senior-level CMOs with proven expertise across various industries gained over many years across companies of all sizes.
How do I know if this is relevant for my business?

If your business is entering a phase where marketing decisions carry more complexity, risk, or commercial impact than before, this is likely relevant.

A simple test:

If the role has grown faster than the leader’s capacity to carry it alone, the gap exists.
How do I know which service I need?

Most businesses don’t start by choosing a service.

They start by understanding their constraint.

Is it clarity, leadership, execution, or capability?

We help identify that and recommend the right solution.
How do I know which service is right for my business?

The right starting point depends on your challenge: is it clarity, leadership, execution or capability?

The Discovery Call is designed to help you identify exactly that, with no obligation.
How does The Marketing Centre's Fractional CMO service work?

The Marketing Centre matches each client with a senior Marketing Director from its network of 100+ experienced CMOs, drawing on blue-chip backgrounds across sectors. Your Marketing Director works as an integrated part of your leadership team, while drawing on collective knowledge and frameworks built from over 1,400 client engagements.
How do you measure return on AI investment?
AI is measured against commercial outcomes:
- revenue growth
- cost reduction
- efficiency gains
- improved decision-making
Not tool usage or technical outputs.
How is a fractional CAIO different from a consultant?

A consultant delivers a project.

A fractional CAIO provides ongoing leadership, operating as part of your senior team and taking responsibility for how AI is applied over time.
How is this different from a marketing agency?

An agency delivers activity.

The Marketing Centre’s CMOs provide leadership.

We define strategy, make decisions, and ensure activity is aligned to commercial outcomes.
How is this different from AI tools?
AI tools provide capability.

Growth Centa OS provides:
- structure
- context
- decision-making frameworks
It is built around how marketing leaders actually operate.
How long do businesses typically work with The Marketing Centre?

Most clients work with us for two years or more.

Not because they are tied into contracts.

But because the relationship continues to deliver value as the business evolves.

As growth progresses, many clients expand their engagement to include additional services.
How many hours does a Fractional CMO work?

The number of hours a Fractional CMO works can vary depending on the specific needs of the business they are working with. However, it is generally accepted that a Fractional CMO will work between 10 and 20 hours per week.

Some Fractional CMOs may work fewer hours per week, while others may work more. The exact number of hours will depend on the scope of the project, the size of the business, and the specific needs of the client.

It is important to note that Fractional CMOs are typically paid on an hourly basis. This means that the client will only pay for the hours that the CMO actually works. This can be a more cost-effective option for businesses that do not need a full-time CMO.
How much does a Fractional CMO cost?

The cost of a fractional marketing director varies based on their experience, location, and the scope of services needed. However, it’s crucial to consider the potential ROI and the value they bring to your business, not just the upfront cost. To learn more about how a fractional marketing director can elevate your business, contact us today for a free consultation.
How quickly can we get started?

Most engagements begin within two to four weeks of a Discovery Call.

The process is designed to move quickly so your business doesn’t wait months for senior marketing leadership to take effect.