The future of treasury careers in Europe: six trends shaping recruitment in 2025
The treasury profession across Europe is constantly evolving. As businesses respond to economic uncertainty, regulatory change and digital transformation, the role of treasury is becoming more strategic and technology-driven.
For professionals working in or aspiring to join the treasury function, it’s important to understand these changes. Whether you’re based in the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, France or elsewhere in Europe, the skills and experience employers are looking for are shifting.
Here are six trends shaping the future of treasury in 2025 – and how they’re influencing recruitment, career development and leadership opportunities across the European market.
Liquidity forecasting is a top priority for European corporates
With continued inflation, interest rate volatility and geopolitical risk, European businesses are placing renewed emphasis on liquidity planning. Treasury teams are expected to deliver accurate, real-time cash flow forecasts to support decision-making and manage risk.
This is driving employers to actively seek treasury professionals with strong analytical skills, experience in cash flow modelling and the ability to communicate insights to senior stakeholders. Experience in multi-currency environments is particularly valued.
Career tip: Develop your forecasting skills using Excel, Power BI and treasury management systems. Understanding how to build and stress-test scenarios is a key differentiator in interviews.
Standardisation and automation are driving transformation
European treasury functions are focused on standardising processes and automating manual tasks. This is especially important for multinational companies operating across multiple jurisdictions.
Candidates with experience in treasury transformation, ERP or TMS implementation and process optimisation are in high demand. Employers want professionals who can streamline operations and reduce risk.
Career tip: If you’ve worked on a transformation or automation project, highlight it clearly on your CV. Recruiters are looking for individuals who can bring both operational expertise and a change mindset.
Real-time treasury is becoming the European standard
The adoption of real-time payments, open banking and API integrations is accelerating across Europe. Treasury teams are expected to provide instant visibility into cash positions, exposures and liquidity across all regions.
This means digital skills are now essential. Employers are prioritising candidates who understand how to work with real-time data, integrate fintech solutions and use APIs to enhance reporting.
Career tip: Stay informed about developments in SEPA Instant, PSD2 and real-time treasury platforms. Even a basic understanding of these technologies can give you a competitive edge.
Artificial intelligence is becoming a practical tool in treasury
AI is being used to improve forecasting, detect anomalies and automate repetitive tasks. In Europe, data privacy and regulatory compliance are critical – so treasury professionals must understand how to use AI responsibly.
Employers are looking for candidates who are comfortable working with AI-powered tools and who can interpret and apply AI-generated insights. Curiosity and adaptability are highly valued.
Career tip: Explore AI applications in treasury, such as intelligent cash flow forecasting or fraud detection. Demonstrating awareness of these tools shows that you’re ready to lead in a digital-first environment.
Fraud prevention and cybersecurity are now core responsibilities
With cyber threats and payment fraud on the rise, treasury teams are playing a key role in protecting company assets. This is especially important in Europe where regulations such as GDPR and PSD2 require strong controls.
Risk awareness and compliance knowledge are now essential. Employers want treasury professionals who understand internal controls, segregation of duties and fraud detection tools.
Career tip: If you have experience working with compliance teams or implementing fraud controls, be sure to highlight this. It shows your ability to manage risk and protect financial integrity.
Digital currencies and CBDCs are gaining traction in Europe
Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) are being explored by the European Central Bank and several national banks. These initiatives are already influencing how companies think about cross-border payments and liquidity.
Forward-looking employers are interested in candidates who stay informed about macroeconomic and regulatory developments. The ability to connect emerging trends like CBDCs to treasury strategy is a sign of leadership potential.
Career tip: Follow developments in the digital euro and other European CBDC initiatives. Being able to speak knowledgeably about these topics in interviews shows strategic thinking and a global mindset.
Think about the future
The treasury function in Europe is changing fast. From digital transformation to regulatory reform, the skills and experience required to succeed are evolving.
Whether you’re early in your career or aiming for a leadership role, aligning your development with these six trends will help you stay relevant and competitive.
The most successful professionals are those who stay curious, embrace change and invest in their own growth.
Get in touch with us today to discuss your career goals.
Treasury Trailblazers network
Are you treasury professional in Europe looking to take your career to the next level and become a leader in your field?
Join our network for future treasury leaders to help accelerate your career and join a community dedicated to your success.
You’ll have exclusive access to our events and workshops, tailored resources and guidance, and our latest available jobs.