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Complete UK pricing guide. Day rates, monthly retainers, and ROI comparison vs full-time.
Compare the cost of hiring a fractional CMO vs full-time. See potential savings in real-time.
Based on 2.5 days/week x 2 clients x 48 working weeks. CMO UK average day rate: £950.
BetaThis calculator provides rough estimates for illustration only. Actual rates and salaries vary based on location, experience, industry, and market conditions. Consult with a qualified accountant for accurate financial planning.
Three common pricing models. Choose based on your needs, budget, and engagement timeline.
Pro Tip: Start with a 3-Month Trial
Most companies begin with a 3-month monthly retainer to assess fit. This gives the CMO time to audit, strategize, and deliver early wins. If it works, extend to 12 months. If not, part ways cleanly with 30 days notice.
Pricing varies significantly based on years of experience, track record, and specialization.
| Experience Level | Day Rate | Annual Cost (2 days/week) | Years Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Fractional CMO | £700-£900 | £70k-£95k | 10-15 years |
| Mid-Level Fractional CMO | £900-£1,200 | £95k-£125k | 15-20 years |
| Senior Fractional CMO | £1,200-£1,400 | £125k-£145k | 20+ years |
*Annual costs calculated at 2 days per week × 52 weeks. Actual billable days typically 155-160/year after holidays.
CMOs with deep vertical experience command premiums. B2B SaaS, FinTech, and HealthTech specialists earn 15-25% more than generalists due to high demand and specialized knowledge.
Specialists in high-value channels (PLG, performance marketing, brand building, ABM) charge more. Cross-channel generalists who can orchestrate the full funnel are most valuable.
Proven results matter. CMOs who can show they've scaled companies from £1M to £10M+ ARR, reduced CAC significantly, or driven successful exits command premium rates.
London-based CMOs charge 10-20% more than regional, though most work is remote. Companies in London also pay premiums for occasional in-person strategic sessions.
Strategic advisory only costs less than hands-on execution. CMOs who build teams, manage agencies, and drive day-to-day operations charge at the higher end.
Early-stage startups may negotiate lower rates in exchange for advisory equity. Complex enterprises with multiple products, markets, or regulatory requirements pay more.
Location impacts pricing, though remote work has reduced regional differences significantly.
Highest rates due to concentration of startups and scale-ups
Corporate sector, often requires more compliance expertise
Strong tech scene, lower cost of living = lower rates
Growing startup ecosystem, competitive pricing
FinTech hub, rates reflect sector specialization
Fully remote CMOs often charge 10-15% less
The true cost of a full-time CMO goes far beyond salary. Here's the full breakdown.
Annual Savings with Fractional
That's a 67% cost reduction while still getting strategic CMO-level expertise
Unlike full-time hires, fractional CMOs have minimal hidden costs. Here's what you should (and shouldn't) budget for:
The key difference: With fractional CMOs, these "additional" costs are marketing investments you'd make anyway, not employment overhead. You're not paying for health insurance, office space, or severance—just strategic expertise and the marketing programs they run.
Browse 100+ live fractional CMO opportunities or post your role to find pre-vetted marketing leaders.