Full-Time vs Fractional Marketing Director. But which is better?

If your business is growing and you're looking for marketing support, you may be considering hiring marketing support. But do you need a full-time marketing director or could a fractional marketeer be a smarter, more cost-effective choice?

In this blog, we’ll break down the difference between a full-time and fractional marketing director, and help you decide which option is best....

Full-time

A full-time marketing director is a senior-level hire who works in-house, typically 5 days a week, leading your entire marketing function. They are responsible for shaping marketing strategy, managing campaigns, overseeing budgets, leading teams, and reporting on performance.

This is a great option for large or fast-scaling companies with complex needs and the budget to support a permanent salary.

Fractional (see also part-time or freelance)

A fractional marketing director provides the same level of strategic leadership but on a part-time or project basis. Think of it as “renting” the experience of a senior marketing leader without the full-time overheads.

You might work with a fractional marketing director 1 or 2 days a week, or for specific projects on strategy or proposition. Another great use is as a mentor to help build and develop a more junior team.

Full-Time Marketing Director	Fractional Marketing Director
Permanent, salaried employee	Flexible, part-time expert
Long-term hire	Short or medium-term commitment
Higher cost (salary + benefits)	Lower cost, no employee overheads
Typically manages in-house team	Can manage internal or outsourced teams
Ideal for large businesses	Ideal for SMEs or growing businesses

When to go full-time

• Your business has an established, in-house marketing team that needs a permanent leader.

• You require ongoing, hands-on support across multiple campaigns and channels.

• You have the budget and infrastructure to support a senior-level hire.

And when to bring in on a part-time basis

• You're a small to medium-sized business without the need (or budget) for a full-time director.

• You need help developing your marketing strategy or aligning your activities with business goals.

• You're looking to improve ROI, optimise campaigns, or get marketing “unstuck.”

• You want access to senior-level expertise without the cost or risk of a full-time hire.

  
  

Why more businesses are choosing fractional marketing support

Hiring a fractional marketing director offers flexibility, affordability, and results. You get the benefit of experienced, strategic thinking, typically from someone who has worked across multiple industries and business types, without long-term commitment.

You can scale up or down as needed, making this an ideal solution for project-based work, rapid growth periods, or when you're not quite ready for a full-time marketing team.

If you’re looking for senior marketing leadership but aren’t sure you need a full-time hire, a fractional marketing director could be the perfect fit. It’s a smart way to access expert support, drive results, and stay agile in today’s fast-changing marketing landscape.

Ready to explore how a fractional marketing director can support your growth? Get in touch today for a free consultation.