Lessons Learned Hiring Marketing Ops Agencies with Jessica Kao

In today’s episode, we embark on a journey to explore the intricate world of hiring contractors and agencies in the marketing revenue ops space. Inspired by a thought-provoking LinkedIn post, this discussion dives into the nuances and strategic decisions facing leaders today. Our special guest, Jessica Kao, Senior Director of MarTech at CloudFlare, shares her exceptional transition from cancer biology to marketing analytics, highlighting the unexpected parallels between predictive cancer modeling and forecasting marketing outcomes. Jessica’s story is not just about career transformation; it’s a testament to the power of data storytelling across diverse fields.

Join us as our host Michael and Jessica unravel the complexities of assembling a powerhouse Marketing Ops team, touching on the critical choices between full-time employees, contractors, and agencies, and the strategic use of offshore resources. With over a decade of experience, Jessica lends her insights into crafting a team that not only builds but thrives in the sophisticated landscape of marketing infrastructures.

Furthermore, the episode delves into the art of partnership and resource management, offering a candid look at evaluating agency relationships and mitigating risks. From navigating RFP processes to understanding the essence of successful collaborations, learn how to discern the right agency fit and manage project capacities like a pro. Jessica rounds off the discussion with an invitation to connect further and a teaser of her upcoming talk at the Adobe Summit, promising to demystify the jargon clouding executive conversations.

Tune in to this episode for a treasure trove of insights that will sharpen your Marketing Ops acumen, presented in our signature friendly, clear, and concise manner. Whether you’re just starting in marketing operations or leading a team at an enterprise level, this conversation is filled with valuable takeaways to help you navigate the hiring landscape and optimize your Marketing Ops squad.