What skills does your treasury team need to succeed in 2025?

Author Daryl Ong
november 12, 2024

As we approach 2025, the treasury function is undergoing a transformation. With rapid technological advancements, changing regulatory landscapes and increasing financial complexities, businesses must ensure their treasury teams are equipped with the right skills to thrive. 

At Brewer Morris, our Netherlands-based recruitment team helps businesses attract and retain top talent across the treasury industry. We’re local recruitment experts with genuine international reach. 

You may be considering hiring your first treasury professional, or you’ve already established a team and must enable them to navigate challenges ahead and drive effective treasury management. 

Here are some of those essential competencies your team will need. 

1. Analytical skills for informed decision-making

Strong analytical skills are the backbone of a successful treasury team. Treasury professionals (such as Heads of Treasury, Treasury Managers and Treasury Analysts) are responsible for cash management, liquidity management and risk management which all require the ability to analyse complex financial data. 

This includes accurately forecasting cash flow needs and assessing financial risk. Proficiency in tools like Excel is essential for effective data analysis and reporting, enabling teams to make informed decisions based on real-time insights. 

2. Understanding of financial markets and instruments 

A solid grasp of capital markets and financial instruments is critical for treasury teams. As interest rates fluctuate and new financial products emerge, professionals must be prepared to manage investments and implement effective hedging strategies.  

This knowledge is vital for optimising returns and mitigating risks associated with corporate finance, ensuring your business remains competitive in an evolving financial landscape. 

3. Expertise in treasury management systems (TMS) 

As treasury management systems (TMS) become increasingly sophisticated, familiarity with these platforms is essential. A robust TMS streamlines treasury operations, automating processes such as invoicing and cash flow tracking and leading to greater efficiency.  

Embracing automation is not just a trend but a necessity for treasury teams looking to enhance operational effectiveness and support strategic objectives. 

4. Strong communication and stakeholder management skills 

Effective communication is a cornerstone of successful treasury management. Treasury professionals must engage with various stakeholders, including Chief Financial Officers (CFOs), internal departments and external service providers.  

The ability to convey financial strategies and risk management initiatives clearly is essential for securing stakeholder buy-in and aligning business goals. Building strong relationships with stakeholders enables your treasury team to navigate complex challenges more effectively. 

5. Soft skills and strategic thinking 

Soft skills are becoming just as important as hard skills in treasury. As well as technical skills, treasury professionals must build soft skills such as problem-solving, adaptability and strategic thinking. As the treasury function modernises, professionals will face complex challenges that require innovative solutions.  

Teams that prioritise professional development and encourage a culture of continuous learning will be better equipped to address the evolving landscape of financial management. 

6. Proficiency in risk management and regulatory compliance 

With increasing regulatory scrutiny, an understanding of compliance requirements is essential for treasury teams. Professionals must stay ahead of regulatory changes and ensure that internal controls are in place to mitigate financial risk. This includes implementing effective hedging strategies and developing robust risk management frameworks that align with business goals. 

7. Ability to embrace fintech and digital solutions 

As businesses look to leverage digital platforms and fintech solutions for treasury management, professionals must be prepared to adapt. This involves understanding how to integrate these solutions into existing processes and evaluating their effectiveness. Treasury teams that embrace innovation will be well-positioned to optimise cash flow and enhance liquidity management. 

Take action for future success 

  • Identify skills gaps: As you reflect on your treasury function, run a thorough assessment of your current capabilities. You can then identify skill gaps, find areas for improvement and prioritise professional development initiatives. 
  • Invest in development: To ensure your treasury team thrives, consider investing in professional development through certifications such as the Association of Corporate Treasurers (ACT) or Certified Treasury Professional (CTP) programmes. These qualifications not only enhance individual skillsets but also elevate the overall competency of the treasury department, positioning it as a strategic partner within the business. 
  • Consider diversity and inclusion: Diverse treasury teams can offer innovative solutions to complex financial challenges. By creating an inclusive culture, businesses can benefit from varied perspectives – leading to more effective problem-solving and strategic planning. Encouraging diversity within your treasury team enhances creativity and drives better financial outcomes. 

Taking these proactive steps will help your treasury team prepare to navigate the financial challenges of 2025 and beyond.  

Investing in the right skills and creating a culture of continuous improvement will empower your treasury professionals to drive strategic success in the ever-evolving world of treasury management. 

Get in touch with us today to hear how we can help you build, upskill and retain your treasury team. 

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