Chris Hayzel

I’m a brand and marketing specialist with a people-first approach to leadership, a deep love for problem solving, and a track record of turning vision into growth. With an extensive background in brand strategy, creative production, and marketing direction, I enjoy weaving back and forth between high-level strategy and hands-on creation.Most recently, I served as CEO of the legacy music software company Cinesamples. During my tenure we transformed the company into a modern and sustainable SaaS business by driving the growth of their newest proprietary software plugin, Musio. We grew Musio's user base by 5X, increased MRR by 4X, and delivered the company's first profitable year since 2020.

Prior to Cinesamples, I served as the Marketing Art Director at Artiphon, where I led content and brand strategy that was instrumental in selling over 250,000 instruments, generating $25M+ revenue, launching the most-backed musical instrument campaign in Kickstarter history, and securing a $5M Series A investment led by Warner Music Group.

I grew up touring in rock bands, surfing, skateboarding, and making art. I didn't go to college, in fact technically, I didn't even graduate high school (I did but I didn't... long story). Yet somehow I was lucky enough to have this unorthodox life—full of incredible people and rare experiences—coalesce into a set of skills that I can utilize to help unique brands tell stories that resonate and scale.I look forward to meeting you and helping you tell yours.