About Cary Zackman

Cary Zackman is an entrepreneurial sales and marketing executive with more than 25 years of experience helping businesses grow through strategy, storytelling, and smart partnerships. As the founder and president of CSZ Direct, he partners with consumer-facing brands across media, fashion, direct‑to‑consumer wine, data, and nonprofit sectors to drive new revenue, expand market presence, and build high‑impact campaigns that deliver measurable results.

Cary’s career is defined by his ability to blend enterprise‑level leadership with hands‑on execution. He has launched national wine clubs, rebranded lifestyle magazines, developed licensing strategies for global fashion brands, and grown advertiser and client bases by 30%+ in competitive markets. His work consistently helps organizations unlock new revenue streams, strengthen customer engagement, and scale with confidence.

Before founding CSZ Direct, Cary spent more than two decades in senior leadership roles at Experian, Data Axle, Direct Wines, and City Lifestyle Media. His experience spans enterprise sales, licensing, advertising strategy, data‑driven marketing, and P&L leadership. He has managed $67M+ business units, delivered 170% revenue growth in under four months for a media property, and generated more than $30M in branded DTC revenue through strategic partnerships with major national brands.

Cary’s leadership style is collaborative, solutions‑driven, and grounded in accountability. He believes that growth happens when strategy and execution work hand‑in‑hand, and he is known for building systems, teams, and partnerships that create sustainable, long‑term impact.

Beyond his professional work, Cary is deeply committed to community service. He is a longtime volunteer and event co‑chair for The Center in Asbury Park, where he helps lead the organization’s largest annual fundraiser and expand its community presence through new initiatives, including participation in the NJ Pride Parade. His dedication to purpose‑driven work extends into every aspect of his career and personal life.

Whether advising as a fractional sales leader, designing partnership strategies, or helping brands tell their story, Cary brings clarity, creativity, and a relentless focus on results.

If you’re looking to grow your business, elevate your brand, or collaborate on mission‑driven projects, Cary is ready to help you move forward with confidence.

Our Services

Selected Results

Generated Through Branded DTC & Affinity Partnerships

P&L Leadership with Sustained YoY Growth

%

Revenue Growth in Four Months for a Media Property

%

Increase in Active Advertiser Base

First‑year Revenue from a New Product Launch

Who We Work With

CSZ Direct partners with:

  • Consumer and lifestyle brands
  • Media companies and publishers
  • Data, SaaS, and marketing services firms
  • Nonprofits and mission‑driven organizations

Engagements range from project‑based advisory to ongoing fractional leadership—always tailored to what will drive the most impact.

About CSZ Direct

Founded by Cary Zackman, CSZ Direct blends senior‑level strategy with hands‑on execution. Cary’s background includes leadership roles at Experian, Data Axle, Direct Wines, and City Lifestyle Media, with deep expertise in partnerships, sales leadership, licensing, and revenue growth.

The mission is simple: Build smart partnerships. Lead effective sales teams. Deliver measurable results.

Let’s Talk

If you’re exploring growth through partnerships, need experienced sales leadership, or want to unlock new revenue opportunities, let’s start a conversation.

Contact Us

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Phone

+1.908.902.3602

Email

cary@cszdirect.com

Location

Interlaken, NJ 07712