Why part-time Marketing Directors?
Many businesses, whether due to budget constraints or the inability to attract the right talent, may not require or be able to afford a full-time Marketing Director. That's where our part-time model comes in. We provide businesses with access to senior-level marketing expertise at a fraction of the cost, ensuring that even those facing challenges in attracting the right talent can still benefit from our services.
How do you find the right marketing director for my business, what's the process?
We take the guesswork out of finding the perfect Marketing Director for your business. Our team has already conducted rigorous interviews and assessments to ensure that the Marketing Directors we recommend have the necessary skills, experience, and talent to address your marketing challenges. Rest assured, we focus on finding a Marketing Director who not only fits well with your business culture but also brings an element of chemistry to the partnership. We strive to make the journey of working with us enjoyable while delivering exceptional results. You can rest assured knowing that we've taken care of the selection process, allowing you to focus on other important aspects.
I already have an in-house marketing manager, how would this work?
We work collaboratively with your existing marketing team to bring additional expertise and support to your business. Our Marketing Directors not only offer strategic leadership, guidance, and experience but also serve as mentors to your in-house marketing manager and team members. We are not here to replace your team, but rather to enhance their capabilities and maximise your marketing investment.
How long is a typical engagement with The Marketing Centre?
The length of engagement with The Marketing Centre is flexible and tailored to your specific needs. We understand that every business is unique, and we adapt our services accordingly. While there is no minimum engagement period, our typical relationships with clients are often measured in months and years. We are committed to delivering measurable value and results within a timeframe that works for you. In fact, we expect to see a tangible value add within 3-4 months, and in some instances, even sooner. Our Marketing Directors are dedicated to delivering value from the very beginning of our partnership. Rest assured that we are committed to providing effective solutions and guaranteed results, regardless of the length of engagement.
What are the pricing options and contract commitments?
Our cost-effective marketing leadership is tailored to your business and its unique requirements. We offer flexible contracts that allow you to increase or decrease your time commitment, keeping you in control at all times. Our fees are based on the scope of work required and the time commitment of our Marketing Director. Most business leaders find having a Marketing Director one day per week gives the right balance between speed of progress, business impact and affordability. Even if you are a small business with a limited budget, we can still work with increased focus and prioritise marketing activities that will have high impact with the lowest amount of effort (money, time, resource).
How long will it take before I see results?
Typically, you start to see things happening after the first month, with potentially a workshop taking place facilitated by your marketing director and the results from that which will help prioritise some of the key areas of work or goals. From that, it generally takes about 12 weeks to develop a full marketing strategy for the business with budgets and a full activity plan. However, every day work continues and there should be plenty of quick wins along the way.
Do you have experience in my sector?
Our team of over 100 Marketing Directors has a wide range of sector expertise, including professional services, manufacturing, construction, healthcare and more. However in our experience, deep marketing expertise is more important than specific sector experience (which you already have, of course!)
Can you provide examples of businesses you've worked with before?
Yes, we have an extensive list of case studies on our website that showcase the positive impact our Marketing Directors have had on our clients' businesses.
When is the right time to hire a Marketing Director or CMO?
If growth has stalled, referrals are no longer enough, or your marketing feels reactive rather than planned, it is time. The Marketing Centre provides senior marketing leadership to align your activity with your growth goals at exactly the right moment.
Do I need a full-time marketing leader or could a part-time one work?
Not always. A full-time hire is a big commitment. A part-time or fractional Marketing Director from The Marketing Centre gives you senior expertise and hands-on support without the full-time cost. It is ideal if your needs are still developing.
What should I expect from a good Marketing Director?
Clarity, focus, and measurable results. At The Marketing Centre, our team of fractional CMOS define your goals, build a strategy around your business objectives, and ensure every marketing action contributes to growth.
We’ve tried agencies and been let down - what are we doing wrong?
Many SMEs face this. Often the issue is not the agency itself but the lack of clear direction and oversight. The Marketing Centre provides the senior marketing leadership agencies need to succeed, giving you ownership, accountability, and results.
Should I outsource or hire in-house for marketing?
It depends on your stage of growth:
- In-house: best if you want long-term, day-to-day brand ownership.
- Outsource: best for specific execution such as SEO, PPC, or design.
- The Marketing Centre: the bridge between both, providing part-time strategic leadership, team coordination, and accountability.
We are spending on marketing but not getting results - why?
Common issues include:
- No clear strategy, just tactics
- Misalignment between sales and marketing
- No accountability for results
A Marketing Director from The Marketing Centre will fix these problems and ensure your investment delivers real return.
How much should I be spending on marketing?
As a guide, 5–10% of revenue is typical for SMEs aiming to grow. What matters most is how you spend it. With The Marketing Centre, every pound is tied to a clear plan and measurable outcomes.
What does a fractional Marketing Director actually do?
A fractional Marketing Director from The Marketing Centre will:
- Create or refine your strategy
- Set goals, budgets, and KPIs
- Lead your internal or external teams
- Drive lead generation and brand positioning
- Take accountability for results, not just activity
How do I know what kind of marketing help I actually need?
Ask yourself: what does success look like in 12 months? If the answer involves growth, leads, clarity or capability, you need senior input before deciding what to hire or outsource. The Marketing Centre helps you define this and get the right support.
We are too busy to manage marketing - what are our options?
That is where we come in. A part-time Marketing Director from The Marketing Centre takes marketing off your plate, builds a plan that works, and gets it done without adding full-time headcount.