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PAULA FRIEDMAN, MBA, CFP®, AIF®, CPFA
CEO and Managing Principal
As CEO of McLean, Paula focuses on leading with purpose—guiding the firm’s strategy while ensuring that its culture remains as strong as its client relationships.
When she joined McLean in 2013, Paula was immediately drawn to the firm’s entrepreneurial spirit and deep commitment to doing what’s best for clients. Having spent the early part of her career as a recruiter, she had a unique vantage point into how different companies operate. That experience made her appreciate just how special McLean’s culture was—built on trust, accountability, and a constant drive to improve.
At McLean, there’s no “this is how we’ve always done it” mentality. The team is always looking for better ways to serve clients, whether through refining portfolio management, improving tax efficiency, or fine-tuning financial and distribution planning. As a fiduciary, McLean takes its responsibility seriously, ensuring that every decision is made with the client’s best interests at heart.
For Paula, leadership isn’t just about business growth—it’s about fostering an environment where people feel supported and motivated to do their best work. She believes that when a team is truly aligned, great things happen for both employees and clients.
Education
- M.B.A. Ithaca College
- B.S. Planned Studies, Ithaca College
- Accounting Certificate, University of Maryland
Professional Designations and Associations
- CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®)
- Accredited Investment Fiduciary® (AIF®)
- Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor (CPFA)
Greatest Professional Satisfaction
Fostering a work environment where everyone can bring their best selves to work each day. Everyone at McLean is aligned with our mission, and watching the team come together to optimize client outcomes is exhilarating.
Greatest Personal Satisfaction
I am in awe watching my two daughters grow and learn every day. They are truly my greatest accomplishment (and made me realize how much I appreciate my own parents).