Building Treasury Titans - Learners

Finding and Retaining Lifelong Learners in Treasury Management means finding and retaining experts who are not only knowledgeable but also eager to stay on top of industry advancements. This is the fifth blog in our series, and we are focusing on Building Treasury Titans – Learners. Treasury Management (TM) is a field that demands expertise in sales to business customers, a deep understanding of TM services, and the ability to anticipate customers' needs. Yet, expertise alone isn’t enough - TM professionals must also have a commitment to continuous learning. As technology, regulations, and customer expectations evolve, a willingness to learn is what distinguishes exceptional TM staff.

Why Lifelong Learning Matters in Treasury Management

TM is constantly evolving. The introduction of new treasury management services, increased regulation, and heightened customer expectations mean that TM professionals must regularly update their skills to provide the highest level of service. Here’s why continuous learning is so essential:

1. Staying Competitive
   As TM becomes more digitized, customers expect fast, seamless service. Staff who are continuously learning are better prepared to integrate new tools, understand emerging trends, and deliver innovative solutions that keep your bank competitive.
2. Managing Complex Customer Needs
   TM isn’t just about managing cash flow; it’s about providing strategic insights that help customers navigate financial complexities. This requires an in-depth understanding of risk, compliance, and market trends. Staff who stay current on industry changes are better equipped to guide customers effectively.
3. Adapting to Regulatory Changes
   Regulations are ever-evolving, and non-compliance can have severe consequences. TM professionals committed to learning understand regulatory changes as they happen, ensuring that your bank remains compliant.

Finding Experts with a Growth Mindset

When hiring TM experts, look beyond their current skills and certifications. Instead, assess whether they have a “growth mindset” - the belief that abilities and knowledge can be developed through dedication and hard work. Here’s how to find candidates who are both knowledgeable and open to learning:

1. Evaluate Their Commitment to Professional Development
   During interviews, ask candidates about recent professional development activities, such as certifications, conferences, or courses. Treasury Management experts who prioritize ongoing education often participate in learning opportunities, from certifications like the Certified Treasury Professional (CTP) to specialized workshops in financial technology or regulatory updates.
2. Look for Curiosity and Adaptability
   Lifelong learners are often naturally curious and adaptable. Ask candidates how they’ve handled recent changes in the industry or adjusted to new technologies. Those who demonstrate flexibility and a willingness to adapt to change are more likely to remain engaged learners over time.
3. Seek Out Industry Involvement
   Professionals committed to learning often network within the industry, whether through banking associations or by attending treasury and finance events. This involvement shows a proactive approach to staying current and connecting with peers, which can be an invaluable asset for your TM team.

Retaining Lifelong Learners on Your Treasury Management Team

Once you’ve hired TM professionals with a passion for learning, retaining them requires fostering a work environment that encourages ongoing development. Here’s how to keep lifelong learners engaged and committed:

1. Provide Access to Learning Opportunities
   Make learning easy and accessible by offering resources like online courses, webinars, and industry publications. Consider investing in memberships for professional organizations that provide continuous learning resources. Team members who see that you value their professional growth are more likely to remain loyal and engaged.
2. Offer Financial Support for Certifications and Training
   Certifications like the CTP can be expensive, and many TM professionals value financial support in achieving them. Offering reimbursement or bonuses for earning certifications not only helps employees enhance their expertise but also fosters loyalty to your bank.
3. Encourage Knowledge Sharing and Collaboration
   Foster a culture where learning is shared and celebrated. Encourage team members to present on topics they’re passionate about or recently learned about. Whether through lunch-and-learns or regular team knowledge-sharing sessions, creating an environment where knowledge flows freely keeps everyone up-to-date and reinforces the value of continuous learning.
4. Develop Clear Career Pathways with Growth Opportunities
   Lifelong learners are often ambitious and looking for opportunities to apply their growing expertise. Create clear career pathways within your bank to help them see how they can advance by building their skills. Whether it’s a track for leadership roles or specialized positions within TM, a defined path motivates employees to stay with your organization to achieve their career goals.

Recognizing and Celebrating Lifelong Learning

Recognition goes a long way in retaining employees who are dedicated to growth. Celebrate team members’ achievements in professional development, whether it’s completing a certification, mastering a new software, or attending a conference. Public recognition - such as a shout-out in a team meeting or a feature in the company newsletter - reinforces the importance of learning and lets employees know their efforts are appreciated.

Building a team of Treasury Titans means hiring experts who not only bring strong skills but are also committed to staying at the forefront of the industry. Lifelong learners are an invaluable asset to any TM team, bringing fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a dedication to serving customers’ needs in a rapidly evolving environment.