What are the best ways to advance your career in treasury?

1 Know the basics

The first step to advance your career in treasury is to master the fundamentals of the treasury function. You should be familiar with the concepts and tools of cash management, liquidity forecasting, funding strategy, asset-liability management, hedging, capital markets, and regulatory compliance. You should also be able to use relevant software and systems, such as treasury management systems, risk management systems, and financial modeling tools. A solid foundation in the basics will help you perform your tasks efficiently and effectively, and prepare you for more complex and strategic roles.

2 Get certified

Another way to advance your career in treasury is to obtain professional certifications that demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field. There are several certifications that are relevant for treasury professionals, such as the Certified Treasury Professional (CTP) from the Association for Financial Professionals (AFP), the Certified Cash Manager (CCM) from the Institute of Certified Bankers (ICB), and the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) from the CFA Institute. These certifications require passing exams, meeting educational and experience requirements, and adhering to ethical standards. They can help you enhance your knowledge, skills, and credibility, and give you an edge in the competitive job market.

3 Network and learn

A third way to advance your career in treasury is to network and learn from other professionals in the field. You can join industry associations, such as the AFP, the International Association of Treasury Managers (IATM), and the Association of Corporate Treasurers (ACT), and participate in their events, webinars, publications, and forums. You can also attend conferences, workshops, and seminars that cover the latest trends and developments in treasury. Networking and learning can help you expand your contacts, gain insights, exchange ideas, and discover new opportunities.

4 Take on challenges

A fourth way to advance your career in treasury is to take on challenges and responsibilities that stretch your abilities and showcase your potential. You can volunteer for projects, initiatives, or assignments that involve cross-functional collaboration, innovation, problem-solving, or leadership. You can also seek feedback, mentorship, and coaching from your managers, peers, or external experts. Taking on challenges can help you develop new skills, demonstrate your value, and increase your visibility and recognition.

5 Plan your career

A fifth way to advance your career in treasury is to plan your career path and goals. You should have a clear vision of where you want to go and how you want to get there. You should also identify the gaps and opportunities in your current role and organization, and explore the options and requirements for moving up or moving on. You should also update your resume, portfolio, and online profile, and market yourself effectively. Planning your career can help you align your actions with your aspirations, and achieve your professional objectives.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?