Your marketing needs a leader. Not another vendor.
Most growing companies hit the same wall: the brand is inconsistent, the website isn't converting, the team is executing without clear direction, and every agency you hire pulls in a different direction.
What you need isn't more deliverables. You need someone who can set the strategy, align the team, and make sure everything — your site, your campaigns, your content, your brand voice — is working together.
That's what fractional creative direction looks like when it works.
Strategic Leadership, On Your Terms
You need a senior creative director but not a full-time salary. I work alongside your team as a fractional partner — setting direction, aligning your digital ecosystem, and leading execution.
Work That Moves Businesses Forward
Each project starts with a question: what does this brand need to do? The design follows the strategy.
Clay Schmidt Creative has helped transform my business. My website attracts new clients daily..."
karol S, TX
Our logo and website from Clay Schmidt have allowed us to build a reputation of competence and approachability."
William R, KY
Clay helped bring my passion project to life. He helped us figure out what we were actually trying to say."
Kincaid H, CO
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a fractional creative director?
A fractional creative director is a senior creative leader who works with your company on a part-time or contract basis. Instead of hiring a full-time creative director at a six-figure salary, you get the same strategic leadership, brand oversight, and team direction — on a schedule and scope that fits your needs and budget.
What does "digital ecosystem" mean?
Your digital ecosystem is everything that communicates your brand online: your website, your social channels, your email marketing, your content, your campaigns, and how they all work together. A fragmented ecosystem — where each piece looks or sounds different — erodes trust and hurts conversion. Strategic direction aligns all of it around a single, clear story.
Who is fractional creative direction right for?
It's the right fit for growing companies that need creative leadership but aren't ready for (or don't need) a full-time hire — founders scaling a brand, marketing teams without a director, companies preparing for a rebrand or product launch, and agencies needing senior overflow support.
Where is Clay Schmidt based, and does he work remotely?
I'm based in Gainesville, Florida, and work with clients nationwide. Most fractional engagements are fully remote. I'm also available for in-person strategy sessions for local Gainesville clients.
What's the difference between hiring Clay as a fractional director vs. hiring an agency?
An agency delivers outputs. A fractional director provides leadership. I work alongside your team, make decisions, set direction, and take ownership of outcomes — the way an in-house creative director would. I also work with your existing agencies and vendors to get more out of what you're already spending.
