Building Treasury Titans - People

Finding and Retaining the Right People for Your Treasury Management Team is more than simply filling positions—it’s about finding those who can excel in specialized roles, drive results, and align with your bank's culture and goals. This is the second blog in our series, and we are focusing on Building Treasury Titans – People. To build a team of “Titans,” start with a strategy that combines careful hiring with a retention plan that keeps staff engaged and motivated.

The Importance of the “Right People in the Right Seats”

In Treasury Management (TM), having “the right people in the right seats” means selecting team members who possess the technical and social skills to succeed in their roles. It’s essential to look beyond just experience in TM and identify people who represent your bank’s values, exhibit a sense of urgency, and are passionate about customer success.

To achieve this, consider these key factors:

1. Identify Core Competencies
   Treasury Management demands specific competencies, from understanding cash management and payment processing to risk mitigation and relationship management. Define the core competencies required for each role in your TM team. For instance, a Treasury Management Officer (TMO) will need a different skill set than a Treasury Management Specialist. Clarify these expectations upfront to ensure candidates have the knowledge needed for success.
2. Seek Out “Cultural Fit” and “Attitude”
   Finding someone with the right attitude can be as important as their technical skills. In TM, where accuracy, speed, and customer-focused solutions are critical, a proactive, adaptable mindset is crucial. Look for candidates who demonstrate a natural curiosity about customers’ businesses and a desire to offer innovative solutions. This mindset often comes from individuals who have had entrepreneurial experience or an interest in understanding various industries.
3. Hire for Growth Potential, Not Just Experience
   While banking experience is valuable, individuals who exhibit a learning mindset and an appetite for growth can sometimes outperform those with years in the field. Evaluate candidates for their adaptability, curiosity, and capacity to grow within your team. Treasury Management is evolving, and team members need to be flexible to keep pace with new technologies and customer expectations.

Retaining Top Talent in Treasury Management

Once you’ve hired the right people, the next challenge is keeping them engaged and committed. Here’s how to retain your TM talent:

1. Provide Ongoing Training and Development
   Treasury Management requires continuous learning, especially as banking technology and customer expectations change. Offering regular training—whether on technical skills, sales techniques, or new software—ensures that team members stay sharp and feel valued. Additionally, supporting professional certifications like the Certified Treasury Professional (CTP) designation can deepen their commitment and knowledge.
2. Create a Culture of Recognition and Accountability
   Recognizing achievements—both big and small—keeps morale high. Implementing regular feedback loops, acknowledging top performers, and celebrating milestones reinforces a culture where hard work and dedication are appreciated. At the same time, accountability should be encouraged. By setting high standards and holding staff accountable, you create an environment where everyone is motivated to reach their full potential.
3. Offer Career Pathways
   Many employees leave when they feel their growth is limited. Treasury Management professionals are often highly ambitious and appreciate knowing that their career can progress within your organization. Create visible career pathways that show how each role can lead to further opportunities. Whether it’s leadership development or cross-functional roles, a clear progression plan gives team members something to work toward.
4. Invest in Team Culture and Cohesion
   Building a team-oriented culture fosters collaboration and a sense of belonging. Encourage staff to share knowledge and ideas, creating an environment where everyone can learn from each other’s strengths. Organizing regular team meetings, problem-solving sessions, and even informal gatherings can strengthen relationships and improve teamwork.

The right TM team is made up of people who not only have the necessary technical skills but also have a commitment to customer service, a desire for growth, and a shared vision of success. Finding these individuals takes time and effort, but the payoff is a team capable of raising your bank’s TM capabilities and driving results.

Retaining them requires ongoing investment in their growth, recognizing their contributions, and creating a culture that fosters engagement. When you’re successful in these areas, you’ll build a Treasury Management team of Titans—one that’s resilient, skilled, and committed to both your customers and your bank’s mission.