Rus Ackner is an accomplished marketing strategist, business advisor, and brand builder with more than 25 years of experience at the intersection of performance, positioning, and executive-level execution. As founder and principal of Torch Group (TRCH.com), Rus leads with a sharp eye for what moves markets and an even sharper sense for what doesn’t. He’s built and rebuilt marketing engines for growth-stage startups, mature enterprises, and everything in between—across sectors like SaaS, fintech, healthcare, professional services, and beyond. Whether serving as a CMO, fractional leader, or strategic consigliere, Rus brings clarity, focus, and momentum to the table. His approach blends rigor and creativity with an aesthetic and mindset shaped by mid-century modern design and the Hawaiian concept of Aloha: thoughtful, human-first, and always rooted in respect. Clients know him for his candor, curiosity, and ability to see through the noise to what actually drives results. When he’s not advising executives or sharpening go-to-market strategies, Rus is usually sketching out what’s next—from brand platforms to compelling speaking engagements to Aloha-inspired business philosophies.
