Jackie Paulsen serves as the COO of Synergy Financial Resources, where she plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between complex financial accounting and the operational needs of small-business owners. Her entry into the specialty finance sector was serendipitous; while pursuing a degree in accounting with the goal of becoming a CPA in rural Minnesota, she transitioned from retail management into an equipment finance role. What began as a practical opportunity to apply her academic skills quickly evolved into a dedicated career path as she discovered a passion for the industry’s ability to support tangible business growth.
This past year has been a defining chapter for Paulsen, as she navigated the challenges of building Synergy Financial Resources from the ground up following its 2024 launch. As COO, she has been the primary architect of the firm’s internal infrastructure, shaping the systems, processes and marketing strategies that define the company’s first full year of operations in 2025. Her work ensures that the various moving parts of the organization — from lender relations to vendor support — function as a cohesive unit. For Paulsen, the most rewarding aspect of this “labor of love” is seeing these back-end systems translate into strong, reliable relationships with lenders and small-business owners across the country.
Paulsen’s leadership style is heavily influenced by her long-time mentor, Carrie Radloff, who taught her that true leadership is rooted in integrity and the “why” behind every deal. By prioritizing transparency and investing in others’ professional growth, Paulsen has moved beyond the technicalities of accounting to become a strategic leader. She continues to drive Synergy’s mission forward, proving that even in a highly automated industry, the most durable successes are built on a foundation of trust, meticulous detail and an unwavering commitment to doing the right thing.
