About Brian Paulson

Brian Paulson joined CSI Accounting & Payroll in November 1995 immediately after graduating from the University of North Dakota. What began as his first professional position quickly evolved into a long-term career dedicated to helping business owners build stronger, more scalable organizations.

In 2002, Brian purchased CSI and began leading the firm's growth and expansion efforts. Under his leadership, CSI grew significantly beyond its original size, expanded into new markets, established a dedicated payroll division in 2009, and later expanded operations into Maryland. He also played a key role in developing the firm's sales and marketing capabilities, helping position CSI as a proactive advisory-focused accounting and payroll firm.

Brian's expertise extends beyond traditional accounting services. Throughout his career, he has focused on leadership development, organizational structure, operational systems, pricing strategy, sales processes, and business growth. His work centers on helping business owners create organizations that are less dependent on the owner and more capable of sustainable long-term growth.

Outside of CSI, Brian has become a recognized leader within the accounting profession. He served as both a PASBA Board Member and PASBA President and spent approximately a decade developing and teaching curriculum for PASBA Sales University and Fee Increase University. His contributions have helped accounting firm owners across the country improve sales performance, client communication, pricing strategies, and operational efficiency.

Brian has also contributed to industry publications and educational resources, including participation in books such as Six Steps to Small Business Success and The Lean Mean Business Machine. Through conference presentations, podcasts, and professional associations, he continues to share practical insights on leadership, growth, and operational excellence.

Originally from North Dakota, Brian has lived in Minnesota for approximately 30 years. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with family and supporting his parents in North Dakota while maintaining strong relationships with his children, daughter-in-law, and siblings.

Areas of Expertise

• Business growth strategy.
• Leadership development.
• Accounting firm operations.
• Organizational development.
• Business management.
• Accounting infrastructure.
• Sales process development.
• Pricing strategy.
• Succession planning.
• Team building and leadership.
• Small business advisory services.
• Operational scalability.

Education & Credentials

Education

• Bachelor of Science in Finance, University of North Dakota (1993).
• Bachelor of Science in Accounting, University of North Dakota (1995).

Certifications

• Former Certified Payroll Professional (CPP).

Professional Associations

• Professional Association of Small Business Accountants (PASBA).
• Independent Payroll Providers Association (IPPA).
• National Society of Accountants.
• National Society of Tax Professionals.
  

Industry Recognition

• Former PASBA Board Member.
  
• PASBA Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient.
  
• PASBA Large Accounting Firm of the Year Recognition.

Professional Development

Brian remains actively involved in professional development through PASBA, IMPACT, IPPA, and other industry leadership organizations.

Leadership & Industry Contributions

Brian has spent much of his career helping improve both CSI Accounting & Payroll and the accounting profession as a whole. In addition to leading CSI's growth and expansion, he has trained accounting firm owners across the country through conference presentations, university-style training programs, and industry education initiatives.

His work developing PASBA Sales University and Fee Increase University helped hundreds of accounting professionals strengthen their sales processes, pricing strategies, and client communication skills. He is frequently invited to speak at industry events and has been featured on podcasts and educational programs focused on accounting firm growth and leadership.

Brian has also served his community through advisory and volunteer roles, including work supporting employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities through state and local initiatives.

Content Topics Covered

Bret frequently contributes video and article insights on:

• Business growth strategy.
• Leadership and management.
• Accounting firm operations.
• Small business advisory services.
• Succession planning.
• Organizational development.
• Sales process improvement.
• Pricing strategy.
• Team development.
• Business systems and infrastructure.
• Accounting industry best practices.
• Entrepreneurial leadership.

About CSI Accounting & Payroll

CSI Accounting & Payroll provides accounting, bookkeeping, payroll, tax, and advisory services to small and midsized businesses across the United States. CSI helps business owners improve financial visibility, streamline operations, and make informed business decisions through proactive accounting and payroll support.