Synchrony tops Fortune Best Companies list
Synchrony, a major financing partner for powersports dealers through its Synchrony Outdoors Card program, has been named the No. 1 company on the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For list for 2026.
The ranking, compiled in partnership with Great Place To Work, reflects employee feedback and workplace culture metrics. Synchrony climbed from No. 37 in 2021 to the top spot this year and has ranked in the top five for the past three years.
AI adoption and trust drive culture
A key factor in the company’s rise has been its approach to artificial intelligence, pairing employee access to AI tools with structured training and governance.
According to Synchrony’s internal survey data:
- Nearly 100% of senior leaders are using AI tools
- 90% of employees trust the company to use AI fairly and ethically
- 82% believe AI will drive new growth
- Nearly 80% say AI will positively impact their careers
The company has also worked with Great Place To Work to develop an “AI For All Index,” measuring employee sentiment and readiness around AI adoption.
“Our culture is built on trust — giving our people the freedom to innovate, experiment and apply technologies like AI in ways that make a real difference for our customers and partners,” says Brian Doubles, president and CEO of Synchrony.
Culture tied to performance
Synchrony reported that its employee-first strategy has translated into business results, including $3.6 billion in net earnings in 2025 and continued partner growth across its financing network. The company supports tens of millions of consumers and hundreds of thousands of businesses, including powersports dealerships that rely on retail financing to drive unit sales and customer access.
“Trust in the organization is a leading indicator of business performance,” says Michael C. Bush, CEO of Great Place To Work. “When employees trust their leaders, they are more willing to embrace innovation like new AI tools and deliver a better experience to customers.”
Relevance for dealers
For powersports retailers, Synchrony remains a key financing provider, particularly through programs like the Synchrony Outdoors Card, which helps consumers finance major purchases such as motorcycles, ATVs and side-by-sides.
The company said its continued investment in AI, digital tools, and employee training is aimed at improving customer experience and expanding credit access — both critical factors for dealerships navigating affordability challenges and evolving buyer expectations.
DJ Casto, executive vice president and chief human resources officer, said the company’s approach centers on continuous improvement rather than perfection.
“We know a great workplace isn’t a perfect one — it’s one built on trust and continuous improvement,” Casto adds.
While the recognition focuses on workplace culture, the implications extend beyond HR. An innovation-focused lending partner can play a critical role in driving approvals, improving customer experience, and supporting long-term retail growth — particularly as digital expectations and financing needs continue to evolve.
