Christine Cross, CoFounder ElevateBiz.IO & Fractional CMO @All In One Email
Christine Cross
www.elevatebiz.io
www.allinoneemail.com
www.perrysysinc.com
LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinecross/
Calendly: https://calendly.com/christine-elevatebiz
816-718-6183
I am super excited to present the next Female Power Player, Christine Cross, a visionary business development expert and inspiring leader with 37 years of incredible experience! I've known of Christine's remarkable work for years, but it was at LinkUnite Nashville where I finally had the pleasure of staying just down the hall from her so we could chat by the coffee machines in the hall! Through this opportunity, I was captivated by her incredible story, resilience, and the innovative solutions she brings to the business world. I am excited to share more about Christine’s journey, her professional insights, and the personal passions that drive her success.
Your innovative platform, ElevateBiz.io, is making waves in the business community. Can you share what unique services ElevateBiz.io offers and how it’s tailored to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes?
Thank you for your kind words! At ElevateBiz.io, we bridge extensive experience in marketing and business development with best-in-class strategies tailored to our partner client’s company's unique needs. Our approach revolves around providing top-tier business advisory and fractional CMO services that are both affordable and highly effective.
What sets us apart is our innovative business model. Unlike many fractional companies that rely heavily on high retainers, we offer a smaller monthly retainer combined with a revenue share on growth. This model ensures that we are deeply invested in our partner client’s success, driving us to deliver results that promote holistic and sustainable business growth. This allows us to be a strategic partner to companies that are ready to grow and scale that otherwise could not afford this level of comprehensive strategy and leadership. Larger companies can also gain this advantage but at about 50% less than if they had a full time CMO within the company. I have found most companies don’t need a full-time CMO.
We truly bring our extensive expertise without the usual missteps that can occur when scaling a business. We focus on optimizing your marketing efforts, enhancing business development strategies, and implementing proven tactics to ensure long-term success. We are beyond a marketing agency!
As a visionary business development expert with an industry-agnostic approach, what strategies do you implement to ensure customized solutions for each client, and what has been your most rewarding project so far?
Thank you for the question! As a visionary business development expert with an industry-agnostic approach, I focus on implementing strategies that are meticulously customized for each client. Here’s how we ensure tailored solutions:
In-Depth Discovery Phase : I start by thoroughly understanding each client’s unique business model, challenges, and goals. This involves comprehensive market research, stakeholder interviews, and competitive analysis.
Data-Driven Insights: Leveraging data analytics, I can identify key performance indicators and market trends specific to the client’s industry. This allows us to create a robust strategy based on factual insights and real-time data.
Collaborative Strategy Development: I work closely with my clients to co-create strategies that align with their vision and objectives. This collaborative approach ensures buy-in and a deeper understanding of the proposed solutions.
Agile Implementation: My strategies are designed to be flexible and adaptable. I continuously monitor progress and make data-driven adjustments to ensure the strategies remain effective and aligned with evolving business needs.
Holistic Growth Focus: I emphasize sustainable growth by integrating marketing, sales, and operational improvements. This holistic approach ensures that all aspects of the business are aligned and working towards common goals.
One of my most rewarding projects involved working with a mid-sized tech startup struggling to scale. By implementing a customized growth strategy that included refining their value proposition, optimizing their sales funnel, and enhancing their digital presence, we were able to increase their revenue by 150% within a year. The most gratifying part was witnessing the transformation of the client’s business and the positive impact on their team and stakeholders. This project reaffirmed the importance of tailored, data-driven strategies and the incredible outcomes they can achieve.
At ElevateBiz.io, we are committed to delivering personalized, effective solutions that drive real, sustainable growth for each of our clients.
Christine, you’re leading the charge as a Fractional CMO for Perry Systems, known for its exceptional IT solutions. What sets Perry Systems apart from other IT management companies, and who would benefit the most from reaching out to you?
Here is what makes Perry Systems stand out among the vast number of IT companies. First, we are a US-based company with teams worldwide, we pride ourselves on tapping into exceptional talent globally. Second, our personalized service, innovative technology, and over three decades of industry experience set us apart. Third, We tailor our IT solutions to meet each client's unique needs, ensuring we are a trusted partner in your business's growth.
Our team stays ahead with the latest technological advancements, offering cutting-edge solutions that drive efficiency and reduce costs. Our extensive expertise in SaaS development, cloud services, and IT management allows us to deliver exceptional results.
Our ideal clients are CTOs, CIOs, Directors of IT, COOs, CEOs, and CMOs looking to optimize their IT infrastructure, improve service levels, and achieve cost savings. We specialize in SaaS platform development, having helped many visionary companies through every stage of the development process, with several exiting at valuations between $20 million and $400 million. This is one of the best IT and Development teams I have had the pleasure to work with. Whether you’re a startup or an established enterprise, Perry Systems is here to help you reach your goals with top-tier IT solutions.
Your journey through resilience, particularly overcoming cancer and toxic situations, is truly inspiring. How did you navigate these challenging times, and what advice would you give to others facing similar hardships?
Thank you for your kind words. Navigating through cancer and toxic situations has indeed been a challenging journey, but it has also been incredibly transformative. Here’s how I approached these difficult times and the advice I would offer to others facing similar hardships:
Stay Positive and Focused: Maintaining a positive mindset was crucial. I focused on the aspects of life I could control and sought joy in the small moments. It’s essential to remind yourself that every day is an opportunity for progress and healing.
Build a Support Network: Surrounding myself with supportive family, friends, and professionals made a significant difference. Don’t hesitate to lean on those who care about you, and don’t be afraid to seek professional help when needed.
Prioritize Self-Care: Taking care of my physical and mental health was a priority. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, meditation, and adequate rest helped me build resilience. Self-care is not a luxury; it’s a necessity.
Set Small, Achievable Goals: Breaking down my recovery and personal growth into small, manageable goals kept me motivated. Celebrating these small victories helped maintain a sense of achievement and progress.
Learn and Adapt Every challenge taught me something valuable. Embrace the lessons learned, even from the most difficult experiences. Adaptation and flexibility are key to overcoming adversity.
Find Purpose and Passion: Engaging in activities and projects that I was passionate about provided a sense of purpose. This focus on what I loved kept me motivated and gave me a reason to push forward.
Stay Hopeful: Holding onto hope was vital. Believing that things could and would get better provided the strength to keep going, even on the toughest days.
To anyone facing similar hardships, my advice is to stay strong and believe in your resilience. Surround yourself with positive influences, take care of your health, and never lose sight of your goals and passions. Remember, every challenge is an opportunity to grow stronger and wiser. Keep moving forward, one step at a time, and trust that better days are ahead.
On a personal note, I loved hearing about your passion for organic gardening. How does your garden contribute to your overall well-being, and what parallels do you draw between gardening and your professional life?
Thank you for asking! My passion for organic gardening has been a tremendous source of joy and well-being in my life. Here’s how my garden contributes to my overall well-being and the parallels I draw between gardening and my professional life:
Mindfulness and Relaxation: Tending to my garden provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It’s a time to disconnect from technology and focus on the simple, grounding tasks of planting, watering, and nurturing plants. This mindfulness practice helps reduce stress and promotes mental clarity.
Patience and Persistence: Gardening has taught me the importance of patience and persistence. Plants don’t grow overnight, and neither do successful projects or businesses. It’s a constant reminder that growth takes time and effort, and that consistent care and attention are crucial for long-term success.
Nurturing Growth: Just as I nurture my plants to help them thrive, I approach my professional life with the same mindset. Whether it’s developing a business strategy or mentoring a team, the goal is to create an environment where growth and success are possible.
Adaptability: Gardens face unpredictable weather, pests, and other challenges. Similarly, in my professional life, I’ve learned to adapt to changing circumstances and find solutions to unexpected problems. Flexibility and resilience are key in both gardening and business.
Sustainability and Health: Growing my own organic vegetables and herbs contributes to a healthier lifestyle. This focus on sustainability and health extends to my professional philosophy as well, where I strive to implement practices that are not only effective but also sustainable and beneficial in the long run.
Creativity and Innovation: Gardening allows for creativity in planning and designing spaces, experimenting with different plant combinations, and finding innovative solutions to gardening challenges. This creativity translates into my professional work, where innovative thinking is essential for developing unique strategies and overcoming obstacles.
In summary, my organic garden is a sanctuary that enhances my well-being and provides valuable lessons applicable to my professional life. The patience, care, and adaptability required in gardening are qualities I bring to my work, helping me nurture growth and achieve sustainable success in all my endeavors.
Pic from AFFY Awards Gala LA 2023
BIG congratulations on your AFFY Award nomination for email company of Email Marketing Company of the Year for your company, All In One Email! We can’t wait to see you in NY for the performance marketing star-studded gala with comedic host Ben Gleib! What does this recognition mean to you, and how excited are you for the upcoming Awards Gala where you’ll be dazzling in a hot pink dress alongside your partner in a matching tie?
This AFFY Award nomination for Email Marketing Company of the Year is incredibly meaningful to us. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication we’ve put into All In One Email. Jon and I are thrilled to be recognized among so many outstanding companies in the industry.
Working side by side with Jon, who is not only the Founder and CEO but also my husband, is a joy and a privilege. We share a deep passion for marketing and a commitment to helping our clients succeed. The hot pink color of our brand represents our vibrant and bold approach to email marketing, and it’s a perfect reflection of our personalities and our desire to stand out.
Being called a power couple is an honor we cherish, as it underscores the strength of our partnership both personally and professionally. The nomination, along with our shared vision and drive, keeps us motivated to continue bringing innovative email marketing solutions to our clients.
As for the upcoming Awards Gala, we couldn’t be more excited! It’s an incredible opportunity to celebrate with our peers and recognize the hard work of everyone in the industry. I’m looking forward to dazzling in my hot pink dress, perfectly matching Jon’s tie. The evening promises to be memorable, especially with the comedic talents of Ben Gleib adding to the festivities.
This recognition fuels our faith that All In One Email is making a significant impact in the email marketing world, and we’re excited for what the future holds. Thank you again, and we can’t wait to see everyone in NY for the gala!
Working alongside your partner can be both rewarding and challenging. What’s it like collaborating with your significant other in a professional setting, and how do you maintain a balance between work and personal life?
Thank you for the question! Collaborating with my husband, Jon, in a professional setting is both incredibly rewarding and occasionally challenging. Working together at All In One Email allows us to combine our strengths and passions, creating a dynamic and effective partnership. We both love marketing and believe in the power of standing out and making a difference in our industry, community and in lives of others.
Our secret to maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life lies in setting clear boundaries and treating each other with the same respect in business as we do in our personal lives. We have a very strong bond of trust and respect, which forms the foundation of both our relationship and our business collaboration.
One fun fact is that by 7:30 pm, we vow to not talk "shop" or business unless it’s an emergency. This rule helps us create a sacred space as a couple, ensuring that we can enjoy quality time together without the pressures of work intruding. It's important for us to keep this balance to nurture our relationship and keep it strong.
Overall, working with Jon is a joy. We get to share in the successes and tackle challenges together, always supporting one another. This journey has made us even closer and more aligned in both our professional and personal lives. Maintaining respect, trust, and dedicated personal time has been key to our success and happiness.
You’ve taught yourself marketing through various roles and had the guidance of a mentor. Can you share more about your education journey in marketing and who your mentor is? How did their guidance shape your career?
My journey in marketing has been quite an adventure, shaped by both experience and guidance from an exceptional mentor. I’ve taught myself marketing through various roles, constantly seeking new opportunities to grow and expand my knowledge.
Starting my career at Georgia Pacific, a Fortune 500 company, I excelled in building a significant book of business and progressed through the ranks. One of the highlights of my marketing career was being part of the innovation team that introduced the first automated hands-free paper towel dispenser to the market. This experience taught me the importance of innovation and staying ahead of industry trends.
My entrepreneurial spirit has always driven me to take on new challenges fearlessly. I founded a successful corporate event and entertainment management company, navigating through the crisis of 9/11—on my birthday, no less—and the economic recession of 2008, which slashed corporate event spending by 80% for over a year. These tough external challenges taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of pivoting to meet changing market demands.
Throughout my career, I’ve sought out opportunities that continue to grow my understanding of marketing trends and successful go-to-market strategies. I am also committed to being a female leader in predominantly male-dominated spaces, demonstrating that courage and determination can break through any barriers.
A significant influence on my career has been my mentor, whose guidance has been invaluable. Their insights into strategic thinking, leadership, and navigating complex business landscapes have shaped my approach to marketing and business development. They taught me the importance of viewing challenges as opportunities for growth and the value of maintaining a fearless mindset in the face of adversity.
In summary, my education journey in marketing has been a blend of hands-on experience, continuous learning, and mentorship. These elements have collectively shaped my career, enabling me to build successful businesses and lead with confidence in an ever-evolving industry.
As a fractional CMO, you play a critical role in various companies. Can you elaborate on what it means to be a fractional CMO and how this role benefits the companies you work with?
Sure! Being a fractional Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) means providing high-level marketing expertise and leadership to multiple companies on a part-time or contract basis. This role allows companies to access top-tier marketing strategies and insights without the cost of hiring a full-time executive. Here’s how this role benefits the companies I work with:
Cost-Effective Expertise: Companies receive the same level of strategic guidance and marketing leadership as they would from a full-time CMO but at a fraction of the cost. This is particularly beneficial for small to mid-sized businesses that may not have the budget for a full-time executive.
Flexible and Scalable: As a fractional CMO, I can adjust my involvement based on the company’s needs, whether it’s ramping up efforts for a product launch or scaling back during slower periods. This flexibility allows companies to manage their resources more effectively.
Immediate Impact: With years of experience and a deep understanding of various industries, I can quickly assess a company’s marketing landscape and implement strategies that drive immediate results. My ability to hit the ground running ensures that companies see benefits without a long onboarding period.
Objective Perspective: Coming in as an external advisor, I bring a fresh, unbiased perspective to the company’s marketing efforts. This objectivity can uncover opportunities and address challenges that might be overlooked by internal teams.
Broad Experience: My diverse background, including building significant books of business at Georgia Pacific and leading innovative projects like the first automated hands-free paper towel dispenser, allows me to apply best practices and creative solutions from various industries to each company I work with. Additionally, I bootstrapped my first business with $10K of my own money on a credit card, growing it into a multi-million dollar company. This entrepreneurial journey taught me the value of resilience, creativity, and strategic thinking.
Strategic Leadership: I provide strategic oversight and leadership, helping companies develop and execute comprehensive marketing plans. This includes everything from brand positioning and market research to digital marketing and lead generation.
Mentorship and Development: Part of my role involves mentoring internal marketing teams, helping to elevate their skills and capabilities. This ensures that the company benefits from not only my direct contributions but also from a stronger, more capable marketing team in the long term.
Moreover, I’m leading the way in demonstrating how fractional leadership can benefit companies looking to grow and scale. By keeping the traditionally high monthly retainer fee at a reasonable amount and incorporating a revenue share model, I ensure that my clients receive value while keeping accountability for results at the forefront. This innovative approach aligns my success with that of my clients, fostering a partnership focused on achieving sustainable growth.
In essence, being a fractional CMO allows me to offer high-impact marketing leadership that is both cost-effective and flexible, helping companies achieve their growth objectives while navigating the complexities of today’s market.
Your achievements are numerous, including multiple awards and recognitions. What drives your continuous pursuit of excellence, and what future goals do you have in mind for your career and the companies you’re involved with?
My continuous pursuit of excellence is deeply rooted in my passion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to making a positive impact. My journey has been filled with challenges and triumphs, and each achievement motivates me to aim higher and strive for even greater success.
What truly drives me is the belief that excellence should be at the heart of everything I do. This ethos has naturally led to awards and recognitions, which are humbling to receive. I never set out for the accolades; I simply focus on doing what needs to be done to achieve successful outcomes.
Several factors fuel my drive:
Passion for Marketing: Marketing is more than just a profession for me; it’s a passion. The ever-evolving landscape excites me, and I’m always eager to learn about new trends and strategies.
Resilience: Overcoming personal and professional challenges has taught me the importance of perseverance and adaptability. Whether navigating my first business through 9/11 and the 2008 recession or overcoming personal health battles, resilience has been key.
Commitment to Growth: I am dedicated to continuous learning and development, staying ahead of marketing trends and go-to-market strategies. This commitment benefits not only me but also the companies I work with.
Impact and Legacy: Making a difference and leaving a positive legacy drives me. Whether helping businesses achieve their goals or mentoring future leaders, I am motivated by the desire to create lasting, meaningful change.
Looking ahead, my future goals include:
Expanding Influence as a Fractional CMO: I aim to demonstrate how fractional leadership benefits companies looking to grow and scale. By offering affordable, high-impact marketing expertise with a revenue share model, I hope to help more businesses thrive.
Scaling All In One Email: Working alongside my husband, Jon, we aim to scale All In One Email into an industry-leading platform. Our goal is to innovate and provide unparalleled email marketing solutions that make a significant difference in the industry.
Accelerating Growth for Perry Systems: I’m dedicated to accelerating the growth of Perry Systems. Through strategic marketing initiatives and innovative approaches, I plan to drive significant business growth and establish Perry Systems as a market leader.
Mentoring and Empowering Others: I want to invest more time in mentoring upcoming marketing professionals and entrepreneurs. Empowering others to achieve their full potential is a core part of my mission.
Pursuing New Ventures: With my fearless entrepreneurial mindset, I’m always open to exploring new opportunities. I’m excited about the possibility of launching new ventures that align with my passions and expertise.
Promoting Female Leadership: I’m committed to advocating for and supporting female leaders in business, particularly in industries traditionally dominated by men. Creating a more inclusive and diverse business landscape is a cause close to my heart.
In essence, my pursuit of excellence is about more than just the accolades; it’s about doing what needs to be done to achieve success. I am humbled and honored to be named a Female Power Player, especially to be recognized alongside other outstanding female leaders. This recognition reinforces my commitment to making a positive impact and driving meaningful change. I’m excited about the future and the opportunities it holds for both my career and the companies I’m involved with. Thank you again for the recognition and support!