Jacob Hayes.
I've spent the last 10+ years working with small businesses — figuring out what works, what doesn't, and how to keep things moving in the right direction.
What I Work On
Marketing Management
Strategy, planning, and getting things out the door. I like marketing that actually connects with people, not just checks a box.
Customer Experience
Making sure customers actually enjoy the ride. From the first impression to long after the sale, it matters more than most people think.
Brand Management
Helping businesses figure out who they are and how to show up consistently. A clear brand makes everything else easier.
IT Management
Keeping the tech side of things running and making sure the tools actually serve the people using them. I speak both languages.
Business Consulting
Sometimes you just need a fresh set of eyes. I've worked with enough small businesses to spot the patterns and help cut through the noise.
Project Management
Keeping projects on track and teams aligned. I like having a lot of moving parts — it's where I tend to do my best work.
A Few Things I'm Proud Of
Product Launch at an Industry Convention
Helped take a product from early concept all the way through to launch — working closely with the design team along the way. We brought it to an industry convention and presented it in front of around 1,000 people. It went over really well — well enough that folks were stepping out of the event to go pick one up.
Growing 3 Brands from the Ground Up
Managed three brands at the same time — from the very beginning through to meaningful revenue — entirely through organic content and community building. Consistent effort, figuring out what actually resonates with people, and showing up every day. That's it.
Helping a Brand Through a Rough Patch
When a PR situation went sideways, I was part of the team that worked to turn things around. We focused on honest, straightforward communication — and it worked. The brand came out of it with a broader reach and a stronger relationship with its customers than before.
Want to Work Together?
I'm happily employed but I do take on consulting work from time to time. If you're a small business and could use a hand with marketing, operations, or just figuring out the next step — feel free to reach out.
Kneejar? Yeah, I know — what does that even mean? There's a story behind it.
Find out on the About page →