Carrie-Anne Mercer on AI, Fractional Leadership & Growth Strategy

From CanadianSME Small Business Podcast SK Uddin

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari. In this episode, we explore how small and medium-sized businesses can scale smarter by combining AI, strategy, and fractional executive leadership to build resilience and accelerate growth.

We’re joined by Carrie-anne Mercer, Founder of Mercer Marketing & Advisory, a Fractional CMO and executive advisor working with global forums and AI-driven companies like Ethicrithm and Crosure Inc. With two decades of experience across SaaS, cybersecurity, and FinTech, she brings a rare blend of calm leadership, global perspective, and AI-enabled strategy to help businesses operate with clarity and confidence.

Key Highlights:

AI: Good, Bad, Ugly: How SMEs can benefit from AI while managing risks like data leaks, hallucinations, and bias.

Fractional Leadership: Why part-time executive expertise gives SMEs strategic strength without full-time cost.

Resilience Mindset: How global crisis leadership shaped Carrie-anne’s approach to calm, smart AI adoption.

Tech for Good: How work with The Cambridge Forum guides her focus on ethical, community-centered technology.

AI-Driven Growth: Her long-term vision for helping SMEs scale through smarter marketing and client value creation.

Special Thanks to Our Partners:

For more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!

Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.