9 Best Marketing Consultants in Los Angeles • Scottmax.com

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Navigating the marketing landscape can feel a bit like trying to find your way through a maze—challenging and sometimes overwhelming. That’s where marketing consultants come into play. These professionals are like your personal GPS, guiding businesses through the intricate world of digital marketing, brand strategy, and customer engagement.

In a bustling city like Los Angeles, where competition is fierce and trends are always evolving, having the right marketing consultant can make all the difference. Whether you're a startup looking to establish your presence or a seasoned business aiming to revamp your strategy, these experts bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, helping you not only reach your target audience but also connect with them meaningfully.

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. Brian Davi

4. Leah Mahi

Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What services do marketing consultants typically offer?

2. How can I determine if a marketing consultant is right for my business?

3. What is the typical cost of hiring a marketing consultant?

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

5. Can a marketing consultant help with both digital and traditional marketing strategies?

1. Steve Vernikov

Reputation Score: AA

About the Consultant: Steve Vernikov is a leading marketing consultant in Los Angeles. With over 15 years of experience driving successful campaigns for emerging businesses and established brands, Steve's deep understanding of digital marketing trends, coupled with his strategic approach, sets him apart as one of the top consultants in the city.

His expertise spans across multiple disciplines, including SEO, content marketing, paid search, and social media management. What truly distinguishes Steve is his ability to create tailored marketing strategies that align closely with each client’s goals, ensuring measurable outcomes in terms of increased engagement, leads, and conversions.

Steve's consistent track record of delivering results has earned him a stellar reputation in the industry. His hands-on approach to execution and regular, detailed progress reports provide his clients with a clear understanding of their campaigns' performance.

His adaptability to new marketing platforms and trends keeps his strategies cutting-edge and effective. This blend of strategy, execution, and communication makes Steve Vernikov a standout among marketing consultants in Los Angeles.

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

2. Brian Davi

Reputation Score: AA

About the Consultant: Brian Davi is a highly respected marketing consultant in Los Angeles. He is known for his 19+ years of experience driving digital transformation for businesses across various industries. His expertise spans digital strategy development, paid media campaigns, email marketing, and conversion rate optimization.

Brian is recognized for his ability to craft comprehensive marketing plans that enhance brand visibility and significantly boost ROI. What sets Brian apart is his data-driven approach.

He leverages advanced analytics to fine-tune campaigns, ensuring that every marketing dollar is spent efficiently. His dedication to measurable outcomes has earned him a reputation as a results-oriented consultant.

Brian also excels in client communication, consistently providing in-depth reports and actionable insights, which empower his clients to make informed decisions. His proactive approach to staying updated with industry trends ensures that his strategies remain innovative and effective, making him a top-tier marketing consultant in Los Angeles.

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

3. Whitney Durmick

Reputation Score: AA

About the Consultant: Whitney Durmick is a distinguished marketing consultant in Los Angeles, boasting over 12 years of experience in crafting highly effective marketing strategies for a diverse range of clients. Her expertise encompasses digital advertising, brand development, content marketing, and email campaigns, making her a versatile consultant capable of addressing multifaceted marketing needs.

Whitney's strategic acumen allows her to develop marketing plans that seamlessly align with clients’ business goals, delivering results in the form of increased brand awareness, lead generation, and customer loyalty.

Known for her proactive communication and detailed progress reporting, Whitney ensures her clients are not only informed but also actively involved in the decision-making process.

Her data-driven approach and ability to adapt to new marketing trends make her strategies both innovative and efficient. Whitney’s commitment to achieving measurable outcomes while maintaining a client-centric focus has earned her a reputation as one of the top marketing consultants in Los Angeles.

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

4. Leah Mahi

Reputation Score: AA

About the Consultant: Leah Mahi is a leading marketing consultant in Los Angeles, with over 12 years of experience specializing in content marketing, brand strategy, and digital advertising. Leah’s ability to create highly targeted marketing campaigns has earned her a stellar reputation for driving meaningful engagement and delivering measurable results for her clients.

From developing comprehensive marketing strategies to executing campaigns across multiple platforms, Leah is known for her innovative thinking and keen insight into consumer behavior. Her hands-on approach ensures that every campaign is tailored to her clients' specific needs and goals.

Her expertise extends across SEO, social media marketing, and email campaigns, making her a versatile consultant capable of addressing a variety of marketing challenges. Leah’s consistent communication, regular reporting, and commitment to transparency have made her a trusted consultant for businesses seeking to elevate their brand presence and achieve sustained growth.

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

5. Kelly Nyland

Reputation Score: AA

About the Consultant: Kelly Nyland is an accomplished marketing consultant in Los Angeles, renowned for her extensive expertise in digital strategy, brand management, and customer engagement.

With over 11 years of experience, Kelly has successfully guided businesses through the complexities of the digital landscape, developing tailored marketing solutions that align with each client’s unique goals.

Her proficiency in SEO, content marketing, and social media strategy enables her to create comprehensive campaigns that resonate with target audiences. Kelly’s approach is characterized by her strong analytical skills and a commitment to delivering measurable results.

She uses data-driven insights to inform her strategies, ensuring that every campaign is optimized for success. Clients appreciate her transparent communication style, as she regularly shares updates and performance metrics, allowing for informed decision-making throughout the process.

Kelly's dedication to excellence and her ability to adapt to evolving marketing trends have solidified her position as one of the leading marketing consultants in Los Angeles.

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

6. Chad Waldman

Reputation Score: A

About the Consultant: Chad Waldman has established himself as one of the best marketing consultants in Los Angeles, with over 12 years of experience in the industry. Chad specializes in creating impactful digital marketing strategies for small and medium-sized businesses, focusing on SEO, PPC, and content marketing.

His attention to detail and strong analytical skills allow him to identify key areas for improvement, ensuring his clients achieve measurable growth in traffic and conversions. Chad's approach is grounded in deeply understanding each client's unique needs.

He develops customized marketing plans that increase online visibility and drive meaningful engagement and lead generation.

Chad is known for his excellent communication. He provides his clients with regular updates and insights, allowing them to stay fully informed on campaign performance. His ability to blend strategic thinking with effective implementation makes him a trusted choice for businesses looking to elevate their digital presence.

Contact Details: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marketing-leader/

7. Gabe Gayhart

Reputation Score: A

About the Consultant: Gabe Gayhart is a well-established marketing consultant in Los Angeles, bringing experience since 2005 in developing and executing dynamic marketing strategies for businesses of all sizes.

Gabe's expertise lies in content marketing, social media strategy, and influencer partnerships, making him a sought-after consultant for brands looking to enhance their online presence and build strong customer engagement.

His innovative thinking allows him to craft marketing campaigns that resonate deeply with target audiences, driving both visibility and conversion. Gabe is known for his hands-on approach, working closely with his clients to ensure every marketing initiative is aligned with their broader business objectives.

His ability to translate complex data into actionable strategies makes him a valuable asset for businesses seeking measurable growth. Gabe also strongly emphasizes communication, ensuring that his clients are kept up to date with campaign performance and future recommendations.

His strategic mindset and dedication to results have cemented his place as one of the top marketing consultants in Los Angeles.

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

8. Brian Selzer

Reputation Score: A

About the Consultant: Brian Selzer is a highly regarded marketing consultant in Los Angeles with over 20+ years of experience in digital strategy and campaign management. His primary focus areas include SEO, PPC, and social media marketing, making him a valuable resource for businesses looking to grow their online presence.

Brian's systematic approach to marketing ensures that each campaign is data-driven and strategically aligned with the client's long-term goals. Brian is known for delivering consistent results, particularly in improving search rankings, enhancing social media engagement, and optimizing paid advertising efforts. His ability to execute multi-channel campaigns with precision sets him apart from many consultants.

He is also deeply committed to maintaining open lines of communication, providing his clients with timely updates and actionable insights. This transparency, combined with his proven track record, has made Brian Selzer one of the top marketing consultants in Los Angeles.

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

9. Brian Weiss

Reputation Score: A

About the Consultant: Brian Weiss is a respected marketing consultant in Los Angeles with over 20+ years of experience in digital marketing. He specializes in paid media, content strategy, and performance marketing. His expertise in the cannabis industry makes him among the best in that field.

Brian is known for his ability to craft highly effective marketing campaigns that drive traffic, generate leads, and ultimately increase revenue.

His strategic planning and execution skills have helped numerous businesses build strong digital footprints and achieve their marketing goals. Brian’s expertise extends across various digital channels, including SEO, PPC, and social media. His data-driven approach ensures that each campaign is optimized for maximum performance, with clear, measurable results.

Brian strongly emphasizes communication, providing regular updates and actionable insights to keep his clients fully informed. His attention to detail and dedication to achieving tangible outcomes have earned him recognition as one of the top marketing consultants in Los Angeles.

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

Conclusion

In the vibrant and competitive world of Los Angeles, the right marketing consultant can truly elevate your business. With their unique skills and insights, they can help you cut through the noise and stand out in the crowded market.

Professionals like Brian Weiss, Leah Mahi, and Kelly Nyland exemplify what it means to be at the top of their game, offering tailored strategies that drive real results. Whether you need assistance with digital marketing, brand management, or customer engagement, these consultants are ready to partner with you on your journey to success.

So, if you need some marketing magic, consider hiring these top-notch experts to help you achieve your business goals!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What services do marketing consultants typically offer?

Marketing consultants offer a wide range of services, including market research, branding strategy, digital marketing, social media management, SEO, and content creation. They tailor their offerings to meet each client's specific needs, helping businesses improve their overall marketing effectiveness.

2. How can I determine if a marketing consultant is right for my business?

To find the right marketing consultant, consider their experience, areas of expertise, and past client success stories. It's also helpful to schedule an initial consultation to discuss your goals and assess their understanding of your industry.

3. What is the typical cost of hiring a marketing consultant?

The cost of hiring a marketing consultant can vary widely depending on their experience, the scope of the project, and your specific needs. Some consultants charge an hourly rate, while others may offer package deals or project-based pricing, so discussing your budget upfront is essential.

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

The timeline for seeing results can differ significantly based on the strategies implemented and the goals set. Generally, businesses may start to see measurable improvements within a few months, but more substantial changes, like brand awareness or customer loyalty, might take longer to develop.

5. Can a marketing consultant help with both digital and traditional marketing strategies?

Yes, many marketing consultants are well-versed in both digital and traditional marketing strategies, allowing them to create comprehensive marketing plans. This holistic approach ensures that businesses can effectively reach their target audiences through multiple channels, maximizing their overall impact.