The 2026 Top Consultants: Paul Schaus

Paul Schaus is the Founder of CCG Catalyst, a leading bank, credit union, and fintech management consulting firm headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona. With over 30 years of experience as a banker, management consultant, and strategist, including more than 20 years in executive management positions in Washington D.C., Texas, and Europe, Paul has guided over 600 financial institutions through complex strategic, technological, and operational transformations. He is also the Founder and Managing Partner of the Bankers Fintech Council, created in partnership with the Arizona Bankers Association, which fosters collaboration between banks, fintechs, government agencies, and academia.

Paul is a recognized expert on BankTech, fintech, core and digital banking technology strategies, and is frequently invited to keynote major industry events on topics including AI, digital transformation, payments modernization, and the future of banking. His insights have been published in American Banker, The Wall Street Journal, The Banker Magazine, International Banker Magazine, and The Financial Brand. Paul holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Management and Operations from the University of Maryland and completed the Pacific Coast Banking School corporate banking program. He actively engages with congressional representatives and regulatory agencies advocating for community and regional bank competitiveness.