A career as a treasurer can be considered a branch of accounting with its unique career path. Therefore, a treasurer is a financial manager responsible for overseeing an organisation’s financial reports. This career path involves analysing, developing and implementing financial strategies within an organisation. As a result, this career path plays a crucial role in every organisation and industry sector. They are professionals in managing an organisation’s financial resources effectively.

To start a career as a treasurer, you must understand and know the right path to take in pursuing this career. Additionally, you need to learn the right skills and the technicalities that will require you to have a successful career as a treasurer.

In this piece, I will guide you through the steps and requirements required for starting a career as a treasurer.

How to Pursue a Career as a Treasurer

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

   Obtaining a bachelor’s degree in a financial discipline is important in pursuing a career as a treasurer. You can obtain a bachelor’s degree in disciplines such as finance, accounting, business administration and economics. This degree will provide knowledge on how to deliver financial services effectively. Additionally, you will gain analytical skills, mathematical skills and a firm understanding of financial management.

2. Gain Professional Experience

   You can gain professional experience while studying as an undergraduate and after graduation. You can acquire experiences through internships or volunteer roles. This can help you get familiarised with this career path. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to learn the important skills required to be a treasurer.

3. Build Relevant Skills

   As an aspiring treasurer, you should develop the skills needed to succeed as treasurer. You can build skills such as critical thinking, innovative thinking, financial literacy and communication skills.

4. Pursue a master’s Degree

   You can obtain a master’s degree in business administration, corporate finance or related financial fields. Additionally, you can also obtain MBA degrees. This can enable you to work in advanced roles as a treasurer. Earning a master’s degree will help you stand out from other candidates and gain additional job chances.

5. Obtain Additional Certifications

   Earning Professional certifications will demonstrate your expertise and commitment to this field. You can get professional certifications in finance such as CFA, CTP, ACCA or ICAN.

6. Network with Professionals

   After acquiring the relevant education and skills, networking is one of the important ways to kickstart your career. You can do this by registering with professional organisations in this field. This helps you have access to growth and career opportunities.

Certifications you can acquire

1. Certified Treasury Professional (CTP)
2. Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
3. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
4. Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
5. Accredited Financial Analyst (AFA)

Types of Treasurers

1. Nonprofit Treasurer

   These treasurers are in charge of managing the organization’s finances, guaranteeing financial transparency, and submitting financial statements to the board. Generally, they collaborate closely with the auditors and financial department of a non-profit company.

2. Bank Treasurer

   Bank treasurers oversee the bank’s portfolios of investments, interest rate risk, and liquidity inside financial institutions.

3. Corporate Treasurer

   They work for corporations and are primarily responsible for managing the investments, liquidity, and financial risks of the organisation. Additionally, they also supervise cash management, capital structure choices, and financial planning.

4. Municipal Treasurer

   These treasurers are employed by the local government to oversee the financial affairs of towns, cities, and counties.

5. Government Treasurer

   Government treasurers have an essential role in guaranteeing public institutions’ financial stability and adherence to financial legislation. Additionally, they oversee the issue of debt, investments, and government finances.

Schools in Africa that Offer Business Administration Degrees

1. Lagos Business School- Pan Atlantic University, Nigeria
2. Gordon Institute of Business Science- University of Pretoria, South Africa
3. Strathmore Business School- Strathmore University, Kenya
4. Henley Business School- South Africa
5. The American University in Cairo School of Business, Egypt
6. ESCA Ecole de Management, Morocco
7. Graduate School of Business, University of Cape Town, South Africa
8. University of Stellenbosch Business School, South Africa
9. Wits Business School- University of Witwatersrand, South Africa
10. Milpark Business School- Milpark Education, South Africa

In conclusion, starting a career as a treasurer demands a great deal of effort, persistence and diligence. This is a highly competitive field. Therefore, you need to have the relevant skills, education and experiences to be successful in this field. Additionally, you need to make sure that you have the right skills and expertise before you start seeking opportunities in this career path.

Good luck!

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