Where do we begin?

Every client relationship starts with a free consultation. This gives us the chance to discuss your business goals, marketing challenges, and budget. From there, I’ll outline how my expertise as a small business marketing consultant can add value. Whether you’re seeking digital marketing services for small businesses or need guidance from a local marketing consultant in the West Midlands, this first conversation ensures we set clear priorities and establish a strategy tailored to your business.

What are your prices?

I work on a transparent day rate basis. My pricing reflects 14 years of senior agency experience but is designed to remain accessible for small businesses looking for an affordable marketing consultant. Each quote is tailored to the project’s scope, required output, and timeline. This way, you can be confident that you’re getting high-quality, expert support at a fair cost, without the overheads associated with large agencies.

Do you work on a retainer or project basis?

I offer both project-based support and ongoing retainer agreements. While one-off projects are always welcome, I often recommend a minimum three-month partnership to see meaningful results. A six-month retainer typically delivers the best value, giving you consistent access to a freelance marketing consultant who can act as an extension of your team. This flexible approach ensures you get the right level of support for your business needs.

What types of businesses do you work with?

I specialise in supporting small and growing businesses that need strategic marketing guidance without paying agency-level fees. From start-ups looking to build a brand, to established companies in need of a fresh approach, I provide tailored small business marketing services. My clients come from industries such as travel, sport, healthcare, corporate services, finance, charity, and more. If you’re a business owner searching for an online marketing consultant who understands the challenges of limited budgets, I can help.

Why choose Ciaran Pillay Consulting?

With over a decade of experience delivering marketing strategies for well-known agencies and brands, I bring senior-level expertise at an accessible rate. I believe every small business deserves the same quality of marketing counsel as larger organisations. By working with me, you’ll gain access to a small business marketing expert who can design and implement campaigns that increase visibility, strengthen your brand, and generate revenue. Plus, as a West Midlands marketing consultant, I can offer local knowledge and the option to meet face-to-face in the area.

What does a small business marketing consultant do?

A small business marketing consultant helps business owners understand their market, define their brand, and implement strategies that drive growth. I work with you to identify opportunities, create effective campaigns, and make the most of modest budgets. My role is to act as your dedicated small business marketing expert, giving you the same quality of advice you’d expect from a top agency, but in a more accessible and affordable way.

How can digital marketing help my small business?

Digital marketing is one of the most effective ways for small businesses to grow. As a digital marketing consultant for small businesses, I can help you improve your online presence, attract new customers, and strengthen your brand. This includes SEO to improve search rankings, PPC to generate leads, and content strategies to engage your audience. For many small businesses, the right digital marketing approach can directly increase revenue and build long-term customer loyalty.

Do you work with businesses outside the West Midlands?

Yes, absolutely. While I am a West Midlands marketing consultant and enjoy working with local businesses face-to-face, I also support clients across the UK and internationally. Thanks to online collaboration tools, I can provide the same level of service and support no matter where your business is based. Whether you’re a start-up, a growing company, or an established brand looking for fresh ideas, I offer flexible and accessible small business marketing services.

Why hire a freelance marketing consultant instead of an agency?

Hiring a freelance marketing consultant offers small businesses flexibility, affordability, and direct access to senior expertise. Unlike an agency where you may deal with multiple contacts, working with me means you’ll always have a single point of contact who understands your business inside out. You’ll receive the same quality of strategic guidance as a top agency but at a fraction of the cost, making me an affordable marketing consultant for businesses that want the best results without high overheads.

What industries do you have experience in?

Over 14 years, I’ve worked across a wide range of industries, from travel and tourism to healthcare, financial services, technology, and consumer goods. My diverse experience allows me to apply insights from different sectors to your business, often finding opportunities that others may overlook. Whether you’re in a competitive market or a niche sector, I can adapt my approach to deliver results. This flexibility is what makes me an effective online marketing consultant for businesses of all shapes and sizes.

Is marketing support really affordable for small businesses?

Yes. I understand that marketing budgets can be limited, especially for small businesses. That’s why I position myself as an affordable marketing consultant, offering competitive day rates while still delivering high-quality, senior-level advice. I believe every small business deserves access to expert marketing counsel to help them grow. By structuring my services flexibly, I ensure small businesses get the best possible value for money.

What does a Freelance Account Director do for agencies?

A Freelance Account Director provides senior-level support to agencies that need extra client services and project management capacity. This role is all about stepping seamlessly into your team and ensuring client work continues to run smoothly. I can lead on day-to-day account handling, manage complex projects from briefing through to delivery, and provide trusted senior counsel to both clients and colleagues. Whether it’s keeping campaigns on track, coordinating multiple partners, or ensuring creative work meets the brief, I act as an extension of your agency team, providing the leadership and stability you need, without the long-term commitment of a permanent hire.

When should agencies hire a Freelance Account Director?

Agencies typically bring in a Freelance Account Director during times of high demand, when existing staff are stretched, or when additional expertise is required to meet client expectations. This could be to cover team members on parental leave, support during busy new business periods, or to step in and stabilise a client relationship that needs careful handling. A freelance AD can also be invaluable on short-term or high-profile projects, where agencies need to guarantee delivery without overloading existing staff. In every case, the aim is to provide flexibility, senior oversight, and peace of mind that client work will be delivered to the highest standard.

What industries do you have experience in?

Over the past 14 years, I’ve worked across a wide range of industries, giving me the ability to adapt quickly to new clients and sectors. My experience includes automotive sports (Australian Rugby Union, adidas Running, Maximuscle), travel and tourism (Inspired Ventures, WAWM), and automotive (Jaguar Land Rover). I’ve also delivered projects in healthcare and pharmaceuticals, financial services, and luxury consumer goods. This breadth of experience means I can bring cross-sector insights and proven approaches to any client challenge, while tailoring strategies and delivery to the specific needs of the sector in question.