Fractional CMOs in Phoenix Making Things Happen in 2025

Phoenix Interim Chief Marketing Officers to Know

Phoenix has long been known for its blazing sun and rapid real estate growth, but today it’s also one of the most dynamic and evolving business markets in the U.S. With tech companies expanding westward, wellness brands multiplying, and a robust startup culture gaining traction, Phoenix has quietly become a hotbed for entrepreneurial activity. And driving that momentum from the marketing front are fractional CMOs—seasoned leaders who guide strategy, messaging, and growth without the full-time overhead.

At Digital Reference, we’re reimagining how professional credibility is built and shared. Our goal is to make the talent ecosystem more authentic, transparent, and efficient, and fractional professionals are key to that evolution. In this spirit, we’re proud to spotlight some of the top fractional CMOs in the Phoenix metro area—independent leaders who are helping companies build brands, launch campaigns, and scale smart.

Our Methodology -Phoenix Fractional CMO Services

We selected this group of fractional marketing leaders through a multi-pronged process:

• Location-Based: Must be based in Phoenix or nearby cities like Scottsdale, Tempe, Chandler, or Mesa
• Active Practice: Currently offering fractional, part-time, or interim CMO services
• Reputation & Results: A history of executive marketing leadership, strategic growth roles, or entrepreneurial impact
• Professional Presence: Accessible via a business site or verified LinkedIn profile with clear positioning
• Digital Reference Alignment: Their career paths reflect our core values of radical transparency and radical authenticity

These professionals don’t just give advice—they build strategy, mentor teams, and help founders create meaningful momentum.

Meet the Fractional CMOs in Phoenix Making Things Happen

Michael Jon Lazar

Founder, Content Author

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-jon-lazar/

A self-described "marketing tactician and revenue-focused storyteller," Michael Jon Lazar serves as a fractional CMO to companies looking to align brand messaging with real pipeline outcomes. He offers a no-fluff, deeply analytical approach to marketing leadership.

Why He Stands Out:

• Experience across ecommerce, IT, telecom, cybersecurity, and legal tech
• Deep knowledge of inbound marketing, thought leadership, lead generation, and conversion rate optimization
• Combines sharp messaging with analytical tools and performance tracking

Michael is best for businesses that need a CMO who understands the mechanics of message and the math behind results.

The Digital Reference Team had the opportunity to interview Michael-Jon and learn a bit more about how he approaches fractional marketing engagements. Here's what we learned:

What's your typical approach to client engagements?

"My approach is rooted in strategy, communication, and consistent execution. Every engagement begins with a detailed discovery phase where I work closely with the client to understand their brand, goals, audience, and pain points. This isn’t just about services—it’s about crafting a roadmap that aligns with real business outcomes. Once I’ve gathered all the insights, I build a customized strategy that’s agile, measurable, and aligned with their growth goals—whether it’s SEO, PR, content, or a combination of digital marketing services. From there, I lead implementation with transparency and a strong emphasis on ROI. I provide regular updates, host weekly video calls, and offer full visibility into performance metrics.

What’s more, I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all templates. Every brand has a unique story, and I tailor every campaign to reflect that. With 20 years of experience across SaaS, e-commerce, and agency landscapes, I’ve developed proven growth frameworks that get results—and I stay personally involved from strategy through execution."

What type of clients are the best fit for you?

"The best-fit clients for me are growth-minded businesses that are serious about leveling up their brand presence and performance. I work especially well with founders, marketing leads, and executive teams who value strategy, clear communication, and measurable results. I’m a great fit for:

E-commerce brands looking to scale through SEO, PR, paid media, and conversion-focused content.

SaaS companies that need a strategic CMO presence to guide go-to-market planning, content, and user acquisition.

Agencies or teams that need an experienced partner to lead digital marketing, PR, or fractional CMO responsibilities without hand-holding.

Businesses in transition—whether rebranding, entering a new market, or trying to regain lost visibility—who need senior-level strategy and tactical execution.

Companies tired of fluff—if you're looking for someone who brings 20 years of no-BS, results-focused marketing to the table, I'm your guy. I work best with clients who are collaborative, open to ideas, and willing to invest in long-term growth strategies—not just quick wins.

Whether it’s securing media placements, building a content engine, or driving SEO momentum, I bring structure, insight, and accountability from day one."

What are your specialties or professional superpowers?

"I specialize in building visibility, driving authority, and turning strategy into measurable growth. My professional superpowers lie in blending deep technical knowledge with high-level marketing leadership.Here’s where I shine: SEO + Content Strategy: With 15+ years in SEO, I don’t just run audits—I build systems that consistently grow traffic, rankings, and revenue.

I’m an expert in tools like Ahrefs, SEMRush, Moz, Screaming Frog, and I’ve led organic strategies for both fast-growth startups and enterprise brands.PR + Media Placement: I’m a placement machine. I manage client columns on Forbes, and I’ve secured hundreds of features in top-tier outlets like Entrepreneur, PR Newswire, and industry-specific sites. These placements aren’t fluff—they’re SEO-boosting, authority-building assets that position my clients as leaders.

Fractional CMO Leadership: I bring 20 years of experience across SaaS, e-commerce, and agency work—leading marketing teams, creating campaigns that convert, and aligning strategy with sales. I’m often brought in to bring clarity, consistency, and confidence to chaotic or underperforming marketing efforts. Growth-Driven Copywriting: Whether it’s a homepage rewrite, a press release, or a full site content strategy, I write with conversion and clarity in mind.

I’ve been crafting performance-focused messaging since dial-up internet. Client-Centric Execution: I don’t just build the plan—I run the play. From analytics to project management to retargeting ads, I’m involved in every piece of the puzzle. I show up prepared, stay accountable, and communicate like clockwork. Bottom line—I help brands punch above their weight, look credible online, and get real results."

What else should your clients know about you? What are your professional values? What motivates you professionally? What's your personality type?

"Clients should know I’m all in. When I take on a project, I treat it like it’s my own business. I bring two decades of experience, but I show up like it's Day One—hungry, curious, and ready to make a real impact. My professional values are pretty simple: honesty, accountability, and results. I won’t sell you something you don’t need, and I won’t promise results I can’t deliver. What I will do is show up consistently, lead with clarity, and drive measurable outcomes. I believe in clear communication, doing what I say I’m going to do, and building long-term partnerships built on trust.

What motivates me professionally? Progress.

Whether it’s watching a brand rise from page five to page one, landing a high-value PR placement, or fixing what wasn’t working—I get fired up seeing the needle move. I love helping brands get noticed and grow with purpose. That’s what keeps me locked in. As for my personality type—I’m a strategist at heart, but I’m also a builder. I thrive in fast-moving environments where people are passionate and open to ideas. I bring a calm, confident presence to the table and I’m not afraid to make tough calls when needed.

I’ve been described as direct, detail-oriented, and easy to work with. What’s more, I’ve led teams, scaled startups, worked inside global brands, and built systems from the ground up. Whether you're launching something new or trying to make what you’ve got actually work, I bring the experience and clarity to help get it done—without the fluff.If you're looking for a partner who combines strategic insight with hands-on execution, I'm probably the guy you’ve been looking for."

Duke Merhavy

http://www.Fractional-CMO.com

Founder and President of Fractional CMO & Marketing Services, Duke Merhavy has built a nationally respected brand as one of the original thought leaders in the fractional marketing space. With over 25 years of experience, Duke provides strategic marketing leadership to companies across industries.

Why He Stands Out:

• One of the earliest adopters and advocates of the fractional CMO model
• Has worked with companies in manufacturing, logistics, SaaS, healthcare, and professional services
• Focused on marketing infrastructure, planning, execution, and ROI tracking

Duke is ideal for CEOs who want strategic clarity, proven leadership, and a marketing partner who knows how to scale.

Carey Ballard

https://www.linkedin.com/in/careyballard1/

A marketing strategist with a background in enterprise brand-building and small business consulting, Carey Ballard helps businesses simplify their message and amplify their results. Her fractional CMO work focuses on aligning brand vision with day-to-day execution.

Why She Stands Out:

• Former Global Director of Marketing for GoDaddy
• Specializes in customer experience, strategic communications, and scalable marketing systems
• Known for being both a visionary thinker and tactical executor

Carey is the go-to fractional CMO for companies ready to translate big ideas into lasting customer connections.

Aaron Pierson

https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronpierson333/

Part brand strategist, part creative director, and part digital growth architect, Aaron Pierson delivers high-performance marketing leadership with an edge. With roots in design and branding, he brings a unique ability to blend emotion, utility, and revenue.

Why He Stands Out:

• Founder of multiple ventures and trusted brand consultant for growth-stage startups and SMBs
• Combines visual identity, brand voice, digital funnels, and growth marketing
• Known for pushing creative boundaries while staying grounded in ROI

Aaron is a strong fit for bold, mission-led brands that want to stand out in crowded markets without losing their voice.

Why Phoenix is Fertile Ground for Fractional CMOs

Phoenix is uniquely positioned at the crossroads of rapid economic growth and shifting workforce dynamics. With more companies opting for flexible, scalable business models, fractional executives offer the ideal solution to meet those demands.

Here’s why Phoenix is primed for fractional CMO leadership:

• The startup scene is growing, but many founders can't yet justify full-time executive hires
• There’s a booming SMB market that wants to professionalize its marketing
• Remote-first trends mean CMOs in Phoenix can now serve clients across the U.S., without relocation
• There’s a strong base of creative agencies and technical talent, making it easier for CMOs to plug into ready-made teams

Fractional CMOs bring strategic thinking to a market that values action—and they do it in a way that’s cost-efficient and results-oriented.

What Digital Reference Brings to the Table

At Digital Reference, we’re not just telling stories. We’re building a new infrastructure for how fractional professionals show their work and build trust. For too long, independent experts have had to rely on word-of-mouth or outdated resumes. We’re changing that by:

• Helping professionals document real-world outcomes with verified references
• Creating structured portfolios that highlight skills, projects, and client impact
• Offering a place where authenticity and performance live side by side

Fractional CMOs thrive in ecosystems built on clarity, trust, and speed—and that’s exactly what Digital Reference delivers.

Final Thoughts: Phoenix CMOs Are Building What’s Next

This new generation of Phoenix-based fractional CMOs brings more than marketing knowledge. They bring agility, credibility, and strategic horsepower at exactly the right time.

Whether you’re:

• A startup looking to define your brand
• A scaling business ready to build demand
• Or a founder in need of a trusted marketing partner

...the list above is where you start. Need more? ...

Featured Fractional CMO Service Provider Content

The providers listed above represent some of the most credible and forward-thinking marketing leaders in India today. This guide is one of many that we've put together to help you hire the right professional for your needs. Below are a few other helpful guides from Digital Reference:

• Local City Directories of Fractional CMOs
• Learn more about the broader sphere of marketing professionals
• Need an in house-leader? Explore our deep dive of marketing executives
• Deciding between an outsourced CMO and a fractional CMO

At Digital Reference, we’re proud to highlight the professionals who are making the work world more transparent, more accountable, and more human.

– The Digital Reference Team

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