TL;DR: A full-time CMO might be the right call if you need a deeply embedded leader to unify a large team. But for fast-growing startups, mission-driven orgs, or post-layoff recovery? A smart, flexible Fractional CMO can be the high-impact answer—without the high-stakes commitment.
Trying to decide between a Fractional CMO and a Full-Time CMO? Here’s what actually matters:
- Fractional CMO: Strategic marketing leader on a part-time or project basis. Brings multi-industry experience, flexibility, and cost-efficiency. Ideal for lean or fast-growing teams who need a partner to both lead and execute. Typical pricing varies depending on hours and project scope.
- Full-Time CMO: Fully embedded executive for long-term brand leadership, strategy, and team development. Best for large orgs or companies with complex go-to-market operations and sustained budgets. Often costs $250,000–$400,000/year or more including bonuses and equity.
Quick Comparison
| Factor | Fractional CMO | Full-Time CMO |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Flexible (typically billed per project or retainer) | $250,000–$400,000/year + bonuses + benefits |
| Commitment | Part-time or project-based | Full-time |
| Expertise | Broad, cross-industry insight | Company-specific depth |
| Execution | Leads and executes (or delegates internally at Cedar) | Leads through a marketing team |
| Flexibility | High; easy to scale up/down | Low; fixed leadership role |
| Team Involvement | Hands-on or strategic support, depending on needs | Direct daily team management |
| Best For | Startups, nonprofits, periods of change or growth | Large orgs with complex departments or long-term scale-up plans |
Why We Love Fractional
At Cedar Collaborative, fractional leadership isn’t a shortcut—it’s a strategic edge. We often step in when companies:
- Need to stabilize after layoffs or budget cuts
- Are growing rapidly but aren’t ready for a full-time CMO
- Are launching a new product or repositioning the brand
We pair strategic marketing leadership with hands-on execution—bringing in internal design, copywriting, automation, and brand strategy support as needed. The result? Faster wins, aligned messaging, and efficient growth.
When a Full-Time CMO Makes Sense
There are moments when a full-time hire is the right move—especially when your company:
- Has grown past 150–200 employees
- Needs daily leadership over a large internal team
- Is preparing for IPO, merger, or major transformation
- Requires deep coordination across departments and leadership
That’s when a full-time CMO can offer steady guidance, cross-functional alignment, and long-term mentorship for internal teams. (We’ve even helped with the transition from fractional to full-time when the timing’s right.)
Cost Considerations
We don’t think about value in terms of hours or titles. We think in terms of outcomes. Fractional CMOs may cost less, but they also work differently: bringing clarity, momentum, and strategic focus at exactly the right moment. Many of our clients see measurable progress—faster growth, better positioning, stronger engagement—within the first 90 days.
Finding Your Fit
If you’re wondering what kind of CMO support you actually need, consider:
- Do you need both strategy and execution right now?
- Are you trying to grow fast without overhiring?
- Is your current team struggling to prioritize or align efforts?
Fractional might be your best bet—especially if you’re a startup, mission-driven org, or navigating change. We can also tailor support around your current team’s strengths, fill in gaps, or help prep for a full-time hire down the line.
Conclusion
Fractional doesn’t mean halfway. At Cedar Collaborative, it means focused, flexible, and fully in the game. You get leadership, execution, and creative horsepower—without locking into a hire you might not need long-term.
Still not sure? Let’s talk. We’ll help you figure out what kind of support makes the most sense for your goals, your team, and your growth trajectory.
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