> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://wiki.platelunchcollective.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Part-Time CMO

> A part-time CMO is a senior marketing executive who works with a company on a reduced-hour basis — typically a set number of days per week or month — providi...

*Core concept* · *Fractional CMO*

## Definition

A part-time CMO is a senior marketing executive who works with a company on a reduced-hour basis — typically a set number of days per week or month — providing strategic marketing leadership without the full-time salary, benefits, and organizational overhead of a permanent hire.

## Why It Matters for AI Search

Part-time CMO and [fractional CMO](https://www.platelunchcollective.com/services/consulting/fractional-cmo) are often used interchangeably, though fractional CMO more commonly implies a portfolio model where the CMO works with multiple clients simultaneously. Both models give growth-stage businesses access to senior marketing thinking — including AI search strategy — at a cost appropriate to their stage. The distinction matters for AI search work because a part-time engagement with dedicated hours enables more sustained, hands-on optimization than a fractional engagement with lighter touchpoints.

## Related Terms

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Fractional CMO" href="/ai-search-glossary/fractional-cmo" />

  <Card title="CMO-as-a-service" href="/ai-search-glossary/cmo-as-a-service" />

  <Card title="Marketing maturity" href="/ai-search-glossary/marketing-maturity" />

  <Card title="Sprint methodology" href="/ai-search-glossary/sprint-methodology" />

  <Card title="Strategic counsel" href="/ai-search-glossary/strategic-counsel" />
</CardGroup>

## Relevant Plate Lunch Collective Services

[Fractional CMO](https://www.platelunchcollective.com/services/consulting/fractional-cmo)