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Fractional Futures is the essential podcast for CEOs, investors, and senior marketing executives looking to unlock the power of fractional marketing leadership.

Hosted by Paul Mills, Founder at VCMO, and with special guests, we'll share expert insights, provide actionable strategies and explore real-world success stories to help you leverage fractional marketing leadership for maximum impact.

In this episode

In this episode of Fractional Futures, Paul Mills and Rob Nicholls discuss the critical role of fractional CMOs in helping portfolio companies scale and maximize enterprise value. They delve into the often-overlooked area of marketing due diligence during acquisitions, emphasizing the need for investors to assess marketing capabilities thoroughly. The conversation highlights the importance of key metrics in evaluating marketing success and the necessity for CMOs to communicate effectively with CFOs. They also explore the significance of building strong relationships between marketing and finance leaders to navigate budget requests and identify potential red flags in marketing strategies.

Special Guest

Rob Nicholls, Founder Rob Nicholls Consulting, CFO, Board Advisor and Angel Investor.

Key Takeaways

• Investors often overlook marketing capabilities during due diligence.
• Marketing due diligence should be a key part of acquisition processes.
• The future potential of a business is more important than past performance.
• Storytelling by founders can influence investor decisions.
• CMOs need to align their metrics with revenue generation.
• Building relationships with CFOs is crucial for CMOs.
• Credibility with the board can facilitate budget approvals.
• Understanding market trends is essential for identifying opportunities.
• Too many metrics can dilute focus; keep it simple.
• CFOs act as chief risk officers in assessing investment opportunities.

Sound Bites

"It's all about the future."

"Too much is just too much."

"Credibility goes a long way."

Contact VCMO

• Connect with the host on LinkedIn
• Tweet us at @VCMO_UK
• Email us at hi@vcmo.uk
• Visit our website vcmo.uk
• Phone us +44 (0) 331 630 9395

Thanks for listening & keep podcasting!

Fractional Marketing Leadership | Marketing Transformed.

Send us a text

Fractional Futures is the essential podcast for CEOs, investors, and senior marketing executives looking to unlock the power of fractional marketing leadership.

Hosted by Paul Mills, Founder at VCMO, and with special guests, we'll share expert insights, provide actionable strategies and explore real-world success stories to help you leverage fractional marketing leadership for maximum impact.

In this episode

In this episode, Paul Mills and Rob Nicholls discuss the role of fractional CMOs in helping SMEs and portfolio companies scale and maximize enterprise value. They explore the evolving landscape of marketing, the challenges faced by marketing professionals, and the importance of strategic marketing in driving growth. The conversation highlights the gaps in marketing expertise within portfolio companies and the value of fractional leadership models in addressing these challenges. They also compare the adoption of fractional models in the US and UK, emphasizing the benefits of this approach for businesses.

Special Guest

Rob Nicholls, Founder Rob Nicholls Consulting, CFO, Board Advisor and Angel Investor.

Key Takeaways

• Fractional CMOs can significantly impact SMEs and portfolio companies.
• Marketing has lost its influence in the C-suite over the years.
• There is a pressing need for better marketing education and standards.
• Strategic marketing is crucial for long-term business success.
• Many companies view marketing as a cost rather than an investment.
• The fractional leadership model offers flexibility and expertise.
• Gaps in marketing expertise can hinder growth in portfolio companies.
• Pricing is a critical aspect of marketing strategy.
• The US market is more advanced in adopting fractional leadership.
• Building relationships is key in both business and marketing.

Sound Bites

"Marketing has withdrawn from the C-suite."

"The most important P to my mind is pricing."

"Investors often scrutinize marketing as a cost center."

Contact VCMO

• Connect with the host on LinkedIn
• Tweet us at @VCMO_UK
• Email us at hi@vcmo.uk
• Visit our website vcmo.uk
• Phone us +44 (0) 331 630 9395

Thanks for listening & keep podcasting!

Fractional Marketing Leadership | Marketing Transformed.

Send us a text

Fractional Futures is the essential podcast for CEOs, investors, and senior marketing executives looking to unlock the power of fractional marketing leadership.

Hosted by Paul Mills, Founder at VCMO, and with special guests, we'll share expert insights, provide actionable strategies and explore real-world success stories to help you leverage fractional marketing leadership for maximum impact.

In this episode
In this episode of Fractional Futures, Paul Mills speaks with Lydia McClelland, a fractional CMO from Northern Ireland. They discuss the fractional leadership model, its benefits, and how it is being embraced in various sectors. Lydia shares her journey from in-house marketing to fractional work, the importance of networking, and the challenges of managing multiple clients. The conversation also touches on the SOSTAC marketing framework, time management strategies, and the future of fractional leadership in the business landscape.

Special Guest & Links

Lydia McClelland, Founder LMC Associates

World Host Training

SOSTAC®

Key Takeaways

• SOSTAC provides a structured approach to marketing planning.
• The fractional model allows marketers to work with multiple clients.
• Transitioning to fractional work can be straightforward with the right mindset.
• Fractional leaders can deliver value quickly and efficiently.
• Networking is crucial for finding opportunities in fractional roles.
• Time management is essential for success in a fractional capacity.
• Understanding client needs and scoping projects effectively is key.
• Trust is a significant factor in establishing fractional relationships.
• The fractional model can help businesses reduce overhead costs.
• Customer service training is vital for enhancing business performance.

Sound Bites

"I love the variety of the work."

"You can add value in a short space of time."

"The skills of a marketer are transferable."

Contact VCMO

• Connect with the host on LinkedIn
• Tweet us at @VCMO_UK
• Email us at hi@vcmo.uk
• Visit our website vcmo.uk
• Phone us +44 (0) 331 630 9395

Thanks for listening & keep podcasting!

Fractional Marketing Leadership | Marketing Transformed.