James Robinson

James Robinson

Fractional CMO

Yorkshire and Scotland

Helping SMEs grow faster, stand out, and win more customers with strategic marketing that works.

Experienced in:
Manufacturing, Consumer Goods, Construction and Property, Transportation and Logistics, Hospitality and Leisure

My expertise
Here’s how I can help your business thrive:
  • Strategic Marketing & Brand Leadership: Rebranding, repositioning, and developing marketing strategies that drive sustainable growth.
  • Digital Transformation & Multi-Channel Communications: Enhancing websites, social media, online advertising, CRM, and lead generation to boost engagement and sales.
  • Product Development & Commercial Growth: Driving profitability and market expansion through innovative products and customer-centric strategies, leveraging NPS and research for retention.
  • Leadership & Business Transformation: Providing strategic direction, simplifying complexity, and guiding SMEs through sustainable growth and transformation.
  • Sustainability & ESG Strategy: Creating net-zero roadmaps and ESG strategies to align businesses with customer expectations and environmental goals.
My competitive edge
Turning ambition into strategy, and strategy into success
I blend commercial, marketing, and sustainability expertise to transform complex business ambitions into clear, actionable strategies that deliver measurable success across diverse sectors globally.
About me
With over 30 years of experience, including 25 years at board level, I have worked with global brands, SMEs, and startups across diverse sectors, helping businesses achieve sustainable growth through strategic marketing and commercial expertise. My background in SME ownership and M&A gives me firsthand insight into the challenges business leaders face, enabling me to develop practical, results-driven solutions that drive both organic growth and acquisition-led expansion.

At Portakabin, I led a comprehensive rebranding initiative, unifying a multi-brand portfolio into a single, cohesive identity. This transformation enhanced brand recognition and contributed to doubling the company’s EBITDA over five years, ultimately leading to a successful exit. At Fairline Boats, I expanded the global dealer network, launched multiple new product models, and drove a 65% revenue increase. At Lewmar, I led the design, development, and marketing of an award-winning product line that captured 45% of the global market share, reinforcing the company’s position as an industry leader.

I specialise in turning ambition into strategy, and strategy into success—whether it’s building brand visibility, developing targeted marketing plans, leveraging digital platforms, or driving customer acquisition. Known for my collaborative leadership and strategic, big-picture approach, I simplify complex challenges into clear, actionable strategies that deliver measurable results. As a trusted partner to SMEs, I help businesses unlock new opportunities, accelerate profitable growth, and build a foundation for long-term success.
Fun facts
  • Lifelong sailor: Happiest when catching the wind in my sails.
  • Curious explorer: I’ve traveled far and lived in amazing places, but still searching for unexpected adventures.
Portakabin

Ready to take
your marketing seriously?

Since 2010, we’ve helped business owners make sense of marketing.
To make smarter decisions and make the most of their investment.

So if you’re tired of switching from one thing to the next hoping one will stick, maybe it’s time to try a different approach.