9 Best Marketing Consultants in Chicago • Scottmax.com

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Navigating the world of marketing can be daunting, especially in a bustling city like Chicago. Whether you're a startup looking to establish your brand or an established business seeking to enhance your market presence, having the right marketing consultant by your side can make all the difference.

These professionals bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, helping you craft tailored strategies that resonate with your target audience. With their expertise, you can effectively navigate the ever-changing marketing landscape and achieve your business goals.

A marketing consultant is your business’s temporary “marketing brain for sale.” They're experts you can tap into when you need serious strategic thinking but don't want to deal with an agency. They drop in, fix things, drive results, and leave. Simple.

You bring in a marketing consultant when you're at a crossroads—whether you’re hitting a growth ceiling, launching something new, or trying to figure out why your marketing ROI has tanked. It’s when you need a fresh pair of expert eyes to dig into your numbers, reposition your brand, or kick start growth. It’s not about getting basic advice—it’s about shaking things up to get you back on track.

In simple terms, hire an individual consultant when you need specialized, agile, and hands-on help. You’re not looking for a whole team to run things; you want one sharp mind to handle strategy. It’s perfect if you have an in-house team that can handle execution but needs a blueprint.

On the other hand, hire an agency if you need large-scale execution, like full content production, ongoing campaign management, or you just don't have the internal resources to handle any of the tactical work.

1. Day Rate

Pros:

Easy to Budget: You know exactly what you're paying for each day they work.
Flexible Engagement: Perfect if you’re looking for short-term help or need an expert for specific tasks without a long-term commitment.
High Focus: Consultants tend to be highly focused on your business since they’re being paid for every day they’re involved.

Cons:

Potential for Dragging Out Work: There’s a risk that a consultant might stretch the project longer than necessary to rack up more billable days.
No Guarantee of Results: Just because you’re paying for their time doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed tangible outcomes or solutions by the end of the day.

2. Retainer-Based

Pros:

Consistent Support: A retainer ensures that the consultant is available to you regularly, providing ongoing expertise for long-term projects.
Predictable Costs: You can budget for consulting services more easily since the fee is fixed monthly.
Priority Access: Consultants on a retainer are often more available, allowing businesses to address issues or strategy changes without delays.

Cons:

Unused Hours: If you don’t use the consultant’s time effectively, you’re still paying the full fee, even if the work slows down.
Commitment: Retainers can lock you into long-term agreements, which may not be ideal if your needs fluctuate or change unexpectedly.

3. Project-Based

Pros:

Clear Deliverables: You know exactly what you’re getting for the money. It’s a fixed price for a fixed outcome.
No Surprises: Unlike day rates, where costs can spiral, project-based pricing ensures you won’t suddenly be hit with extra charges mid-way through.
Incentivizes Efficiency: Consultants are motivated to get the project done well and quickly since they’ve already agreed to a set fee.

Cons:

Scope Creep: If the project changes or grows, you might end up paying more or not getting exactly what you need. Consultants might push back on additional requests that go beyond the initial agreement.
Limited Flexibility: If new insights or challenges pop up mid-project, it can be harder to pivot without renegotiating fees.

4. Performance-Based

Pros:

Results-Driven: You only pay for outcomes. This model aligns your goals with the consultant’s motivation—they win when you win.
Low Upfront Risk: There’s less financial risk because you don’t pay until results are delivered, making it an attractive option if you’re budget-conscious or want to minimize risk.

Cons:

Short-Term Focus: To hit those targets, consultants might cut corners or focus on quick wins rather than building long-term strategies that will benefit your business in the future.
Can Be Expensive: If they’re delivering huge results, you could end up paying significantly more than you would with a project or day rate model.
Harder to Track Success: Depending on how success is measured, it can get tricky to define what counts as a “win,” which may lead to disagreements down the line.

5. Value-Based

Pros:

Focus on ROI: The consultant’s fee is tied directly to the value they bring to your business, aligning their goals with your success.
Big Impact for High-Value Projects: This model works well when a consultant can deliver measurable, high-impact outcomes that generate substantial business growth.
Flexible for High-Performing Consultants: Consultants who know their worth can create more lucrative opportunities, which can lead to stronger results for your business.

Cons:

Hard to Define Value: It can be tricky to determine the exact value a consultant brings to your business, leading to disagreements or overestimations.
More Expensive for Large Projects: Since pricing is tied to the value provided, it can result in significantly higher fees for larger or more successful projects, which may strain smaller budgets.

6. Combination of Models

Sometimes, a mix of pricing models is the best approach. This gives you the flexibility to pay for both time and results, allowing you to minimize the risks tied to any single pricing model. By combining day rates, project-based fees, or performance incentives, you can create a customized payment structure that works best for both you and the consultant.

If You Think You Might Change Strategy Midway:

Go with Day Rate. This is your best option if you're expecting things to evolve as you go. If you’re unsure about the final direction or need room to pivot, paying per day allows you to adjust plans without getting locked into a rigid agreement. It’s perfect when you need flexibility, and your project scope isn’t set in stone.

If You Need Ongoing Support for Long-Term Strategy:

Go with Retainer-Based pricing. This model is perfect for businesses that need continuous, long-term marketing support. If you require consistent consulting services—whether it’s for managing campaigns, regular strategy updates, or monthly check-ins—a retainer offers both predictability and commitment. It’s great for building a solid relationship with your consultant, and you can ensure they’ll be available when you need them.

If You Have a Clear, Well-Defined Goal:

Go with Project-Based pricing. If you know exactly what you need, and you’re looking for a specific outcome—like a completed campaign strategy, SEO overhaul, or rebranding—this model is ideal. You pay once, and the job gets done (tactical side of course. You still need to execute the plan given!). No surprises. This is great for one-off projects where the scope won’t change much.

If You Want to Pay Based on Results:

Go with Performance-Based pricing. This is a solid choice if your focus is on measurable outcomes, like increasing sales, improving ROI, or saving money on your marketing spend. It's high-risk but high-reward. If you know exactly what success looks like (e.g., X% increase in conversions), and you want to pay based on hitting those goals, performance-based is the way to go.

If You Want to Pay Based on the Value Delivered:

Go with Value-Based pricing. If your project has a big potential upside, and you’re more concerned with the business impact rather than the hours worked, value-based pricing is a good fit. You’re paying for the results the consultant will bring, which makes this model perfect for high-impact, strategic work where the outcome will significantly influence your business. It's ideal when the consultant can directly tie their work to a large ROI for your company.

If You Want the Best of Both Worlds:

Consider a Combination of Models. If your situation is complex—maybe you need flexibility but also want to incentivize results—you can mix and match models. For example, start with a day rate for initial strategy work and then switch to performance-based for the execution. This way, you level out the risks and get the most value from your consultant.

Day Rate:

For smaller companies (under $10M in annual revenue), expect day rates between $800 to $2,500. However, if your company is pulling in tens or hundreds of millions in revenue, day rates can easily reach $5,000 to $10,000, depending on the consultant’s reputation and the complexity of the task. Larger companies will naturally attract consultants with deeper expertise, and that comes at a premium.

Retainer-Based:

For small to mid-sized businesses, monthly retainers can range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the services provided and the consultant’s expertise. For larger companies, or those needing more ongoing, hands-on support, retainers can climb to $20,000 to $50,000+ per month. Retainers are particularly common in long-term relationships where a consultant acts as an external CMO or continuous marketing strategist.

Project-Based:

Smaller businesses might see project fees ranging from $5,000 to $50,000, but if your business is doing $50M+ in revenue, consultants will scale their services accordingly. For large companies, project-based pricing can go upwards of $100,000 to $500,000 or more, depending on scope, industry, and market demands.

Performance-Based:

For smaller businesses, performance-based pricing typically falls in the 10-20% range of increased revenue or savings. However, for larger businesses with more complex KPIs, the consultant might negotiate a lower percentage but on a much higher volume. Think 5-10% on larger deals, especially if we’re talking about generating millions in new business.

Value-Based Pricing:

For small businesses, value-based pricing may start at $10,000 to $30,000+, depending on the projected ROI from the consultant’s work. Larger companies with higher stakes projects could see value-based fees ranging from $50,000 to $200,000+, especially when the consultant’s work could deliver significant business growth or save millions. The fee scales based on the perceived value and impact of the consultant’s contribution.

Combination of Models:

When mixing pricing models, the costs can vary significantly depending on the elements combined. For example, you might pay $2,000 to $5,000/day for initial strategy work and then layer in a 5-10% performance-based fee for measurable outcomes. Larger businesses combining these models could see day rates rise to $10,000 or more with performance fees or project fees scaling based on results or scope. This structure allows for a highly customizable payment plan depending on the needs of the business.

When you hire a consultant, you’re paying for clarity and results. Expect them to:

Dive deep into your current strategies and processes, find the leaks, and patch them up.
Give you a roadmap to fix your marketing—whether that’s building a better funnel, improving your brand positioning, or creating a data-driven ad strategy.
Keep it lean. No fluff, no bloated reports—just actionable insights and steps to get your marketing back in shape.

Identify the Problem

Ask yourself: Are you hitting a growth ceiling, launching something new, or struggling with ROI? Pinpoint the issue first.

Decide Between a Consultant or Agency

If you need strategy only, hire a consultant. If you need full execution (like running campaigns), go with an agency.

Choose Your Pricing Model

Go with day rate for short-term or flexible projects.
Choose a retainer if you need long-term, ongoing support.
Opt for project-based if you have a clear, one-off goal.
Pick performance-based if you want to pay only for results.

Find the Right Consultant

Look for someone with proven experience in solving your specific problem. Check their past work and testimonials.

Set Clear Expectations

Define the scope of work, timeline, and deliverables upfront. Make sure both parties are aligned on goals.

Monitor Results

Track the consultant’s impact on your business and adjust your plan if needed.

Our Rating Guidelines

AAA Rated Marketing Consultants only get this rank if we have sent a client previously and the client has given us positive feedback.

Works On: High-stakes projects for companies doing $50M+ in revenue. These consultants work with large marketing teams and handle multi-channel strategies across digital, traditional, and emerging platforms.
Delivers: Significant revenue growth, optimized processes, and a clear roadmap for scaling. They excel at breaking through growth ceilings and driving measurable results across the board.
Who Should Hire: Large, established businesses looking to elevate their marketing to the next level. If you need a consultant to overhaul or optimize a massive marketing operation, AAA-rated consultants are your go-to.

Works On: Medium to large projects for companies making $10M–$50M annually. They’re great at scaling up existing operations and improving multi-channel marketing efforts.
Delivers: Solid increases in leads, conversions, and overall marketing efficiency. They can optimize what you already have and help you expand into new marketing channels or audiences.
Who Should Hire: Mid-sized businesses that are growing steadily but need someone to take them up a notch. AA consultants can boost what’s working and fix what’s not.

Works On: Smaller-scale projects or ongoing work for businesses up to $10M in revenue. These consultants handle focused campaigns, such as improving SEO, social media, or paid advertising strategies.
Delivers: Steady, consistent growth in traffic, leads, and brand presence. They refine your marketing operations and help underperforming areas improve.
Who Should Hire: Small to mid-sized businesses that have some marketing presence but need someone to come in and optimize performance without overhauling the whole system.

Works On: Foundational marketing projects for startups and small businesses typically earning under $1M. They’ll work on everything from setting up your first SEO strategy to refining your social media presence.
Delivers: Noticeable improvements in visibility, lead generation, and audience engagement. They help you build a solid marketing foundation that you can grow from.
Who Should Hire: Small businesses and startups looking to establish or grow their online presence. They’re excellent for businesses needing direction and practical support to implement effective marketing strategies.

Works On: Strategic projects for new businesses or companies with an online presence that needs improvement. These consultants provide guidance, build strong marketing foundations, and help businesses develop a clear strategy.
Delivers: Strong brand presence, structured marketing plans, and effective online visibility. C-rated consultants are not just about social media—they can set you up with everything from website optimization to email marketing strategies.
Who Should Hire: Early-stage businesses, or those with an online presence needing clarity on what to do next. C-rated consultants are perfect for helping businesses understand how to grow from where they are and implement key strategies for success.

Contents hide

1. Day Rate

6. Combination of Models

Day Rate:

Combination of Models:

Identify the Problem

Decide Between a Consultant or Agency

Choose Your Pricing Model

Find the Right Consultant

Set Clear Expectations

2. Ian Sohn

5. Kiki Luthringshausen

6. Laura Greene

7. Darii Bilyi

8. Dave Mitchell

9. Tom Hord

Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What services do marketing consultants typically offer?

2. How do I choose the right marketing consultant for my business?

3. How much does it cost to hire a marketing consultant?

4. How long does it take to see results from a marketing consultant's strategies?

5. Can I work with a marketing consultant remotely?

1. Richard Goldman

Reputation Score: AA

About the Consultant: Richard Goldman is a highly sought-after marketing consultant in Chicago. With over 18+ years of experience specializing in brand development, digital marketing, and market research, his strategic insights have helped numerous businesses enhance their market presence and effectively engage with their target audiences.

Richard has a knack for identifying unique selling propositions and translating them into compelling marketing strategies that resonate with consumers. His expertise spans various channels, including social media, email marketing, and SEO, enabling him to develop comprehensive campaigns that drive measurable results.

Richard is known for his proactive communication style, ensuring that clients are informed at every step of the process. His commitment to delivering exceptional outcomes has solidified his reputation as one of the top marketing consultants in Chicago.

Contact Details: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richgoldmancompetiscan/

2. Ian Sohn

Reputation Score: AA

About the Consultant: Ian Sohn is a distinguished marketing consultant in Chicago, bringing over 12+ years of experience in strategic marketing, brand positioning, and digital advertising. Known for his innovative approach, Ian has successfully partnered with diverse businesses to help them refine their marketing strategies and elevate their brand visibility.

His deep understanding of consumer behavior allows him to create data-driven campaigns that resonate with target audiences and yield significant results. Ian's expertise spans across various channels, including social media, email marketing, and content creation, making him a versatile asset for any marketing initiative.

His commitment to transparency and regular communication ensures that clients are kept informed throughout the project, fostering strong collaborative relationships. With a proven ability to drive growth and engagement, Ian Sohn is regarded as one of the top marketing consultants in Chicago.

Contact Details: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iansohn/

3. Evan Patterson

Reputation Score: AA

About the Consultant: Evan Patterson is a prominent marketing consultant in Chicago. He has extensive experience specializing in digital strategy, content marketing, and customer experience optimization. He has successfully collaborated with various businesses to develop comprehensive marketing plans that enhance brand visibility and drive customer engagement.

Evan’s ability to analyze market trends and consumer behavior allows him to create tailored strategies that resonate with target audiences. Known for his strong communication skills and a results-oriented approach, Evan ensures that his clients are kept in the loop throughout their marketing journey.

His proficiency in leveraging both traditional and digital marketing channels equips his clients with a well-rounded approach to their marketing efforts. With a track record of delivering impressive results, Evan Patterson stands out as one of the leading marketing consultants in Chicago.

Contact Details: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanpatterson/

4. Nicole Fernandes

Reputation Score: AA

About the Consultant: Nicole Fernandes is a top-tier marketing consultant in Chicago. She brings over 11 years of experience in digital marketing, branding, and customer engagement. Her innovative strategies have helped diverse clients strengthen their brand identity and achieve significant growth.

Nicole excels at crafting tailored marketing solutions that align with her clients' unique business goals and resonate with their target demographics. With a strong social media marketing and content strategy background, Nicole is adept at leveraging various platforms to maximize brand exposure and foster customer loyalty.

She prioritizes communication, providing clients with regular updates and insights to ensure transparency throughout the project lifecycle. Her dedication to delivering outstanding results and her ability to adapt to evolving market trends have established Nicole Fernandes as one of the leading marketing consultants in Chicago.

Contact Details: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-fernandes-7362316/

5. Kiki Luthringshausen

Reputation Score: AA

About the Consultant: Kiki Luthringshausen is a highly regarded marketing consultant in Chicago, known for her expertise in digital marketing, social media strategy, and brand storytelling within the food, hospitality, travel, luxury lifestyle, and interior design sectors.

With over 12 years of experience in the industry, Kiki has helped numerous businesses craft compelling narratives and engage their audiences through innovative marketing tactics. Her approach combines creativity with data-driven insights, allowing her to develop tailored strategies that effectively meet client goals.

Kiki is passionate about staying ahead of industry trends and leveraging the latest digital tools to maximize her clients' reach. She fosters strong relationships through clear communication and regular updates, ensuring that her clients are always informed and involved in the process. With her proven ability to deliver impactful results, Kiki Luthringshausen stands out as one of the leading marketing consultants in Chicago.

Contact Details: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiki-luthringshausen/

6. Laura Greene

Reputation Score: A

About the Consultant: Laura Greene is an accomplished marketing consultant based in Chicago. She is known for her extensive experience in digital strategy, content marketing, and brand management. With over 10+ years in the industry, Laura has helped a variety of businesses enhance their online presence and connect more authentically with their customers.

Her SEO and social media marketing expertise allows her to create targeted campaigns that effectively engage audiences and drive traffic. Laura takes a hands-on approach to her work, ensuring that each campaign is customized to meet the unique needs of her clients.

She is dedicated to providing clear communication and regular updates, enabling her clients to fully understand the impact of their marketing efforts. With a proven track record of delivering positive results, Laura Greene is recognized as one of the leading marketing consultants in Chicago.

Contact Details: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lgreene91/

7. Darii Bilyi

Reputation Score: A

About the Consultant: Darii Bilyi is a dynamic marketing consultant based in Chicago. He is known for his expertise in digital marketing, brand strategy, and analytics. With over eight years of experience, Darii has worked with a range of clients, from startups to established businesses, helping them enhance their marketing efforts and achieve measurable results.

His strategic approach focuses on understanding each client's unique needs, allowing him to craft tailored marketing strategies that drive engagement and growth. Darii excels in utilizing data analytics to inform his marketing decisions, ensuring that every campaign is optimized for performance. His experience in working outside of the US has given him a clearer insight into what a customer needs.

His collaborative style fosters strong relationships with clients, emphasizing open communication and transparency throughout the process. Darii's commitment to delivering impactful results has made him a respected marketing consultant in the competitive Chicago market.

Contact Details: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariibilyi/

8. Dave Mitchell

Reputation Score: A

About the Consultant: Dave Mitchell is an experienced marketing consultant based in Chicago. He is known for his expertise in brand development, digital marketing, and strategic planning. With over nine years in the industry, Dave has successfully guided numerous companies in enhancing their marketing strategies and improving their market presence.

He has a talent for creating impactful marketing campaigns that align with clients' business objectives while effectively engaging their target audiences. Dave's analytical skills enable him to assess campaign performance and make data-driven adjustments to optimize results continuously. Experienced in sound engineering, he knows exactly how to get into a customer's mindset and create the best campaigns.

He believes in fostering strong partnerships with his clients, ensuring open lines of communication and a collaborative approach to problem-solving. Dave Mitchell's commitment to excellence and his proven track record of success make him a highly regarded marketing consultant in the vibrant Chicago market.

Contact Details: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davemitchell008/

9. Tom Hord

Reputation Score: A

About the Consultant: Tom Hord is a skilled marketing consultant based in Chicago, specializing in digital marketing strategies, brand development, and market analysis. With over eight years of experience in the field, Tom has successfully assisted various businesses in refining their marketing approaches and enhancing their overall performance.

He is keen on identifying market trends and consumer needs, allowing him to develop effective marketing strategies that drive engagement and results. Tom is known for his collaborative approach, working closely with clients to meet their vision and goals.

His expertise in leveraging both traditional and digital marketing channels enables him to create well-rounded campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences. With a proven track record of success, Tom Hord is recognized as a reliable and impactful marketing consultant in Chicago.

Contact Details: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomhord/

Conclusion

In the vibrant marketing landscape of Chicago, several standout consultants excel in helping businesses thrive. From innovative digital strategies to compelling brand storytelling, these professionals have proven their mettle in delivering impressive results.

Notable names in the field include Kiki Luthringshausen, who specializes in social media strategy, and Ian Sohn, known for his data-driven approach. Additionally, Nicole Fernandes and Tom Hord's expertise further highlights this city's exceptional talent. Collaborating with any of these top-notch consultants can position your business for success and stand out in the competitive marketplace.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What services do marketing consultants typically offer?

Marketing consultants usually provide a wide range of services, including digital marketing strategies, brand development, social media management, and market analysis. They tailor their offerings to meet the unique needs of each client and ensure that their marketing efforts align with specific business goals.

2. How do I choose the right marketing consultant for my business?

When selecting a marketing consultant, consider their experience, areas of expertise, and past client success stories. Evaluating their communication style and approach is important to ensure they align with your company's values and vision.

3. How much does it cost to hire a marketing consultant?

The cost of hiring a marketing consultant can vary widely based on their experience, the complexity of the project, and the services required. Some consultants charge hourly rates, while others may offer project-based pricing, so discussing your budget and needs is essential.

4. How long does it take to see results from a marketing consultant's strategies?

The timeframe for seeing results can depend on several factors, including your marketing strategy and industry. Generally, you may start to notice initial improvements within a few weeks to months, but significant changes may take longer to manifest as campaigns are optimized and refined.

5. Can I work with a marketing consultant remotely?

Many marketing consultants work remotely and can effectively collaborate with clients through digital communication tools. This flexibility allows you to access a wider pool of talent regardless of your location, making it easier to find the right consultant for your specific needs.