When hiring a Fractional CMO makes sense (and when it doesn’t) with Sam Butterworth
Mon Jan 12 2026
In this episode, we look at the pros and cons of bringing in a Fractional CMO (fCMO) and how to avoid it becoming an expensive hiring mistake. The discussion will help CEOs get clear on what’s really needed. We cover what a good Fractional CMO looks like and when you might be better off hiring a more hands-on marketer instead. Sam and Craig also touch on:• Why CEOs often resist the hard truths in marketing• The pitfalls of fCMO engagements• Why some who try to become fCMOs don’t succeed• How to “hybridise” marketing ops with the right internal/external mix
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In this episode, we look at the pros and cons of bringing in a Fractional CMO (fCMO) and how to avoid it becoming an expensive hiring mistake. The discussion will help CEOs get clear on what’s really needed. We cover what a good Fractional CMO looks like and when you might be better off hiring a more hands-on marketer instead. Sam and Craig also touch on:• Why CEOs often resist the hard truths in marketing• The pitfalls of fCMO engagements• Why some who try to become fCMOs don’t succeed• How to “hybridise” marketing ops with the right internal/external mix