Job description vs client briefing call: why both matter in treasury hiring

In the UK treasury jobs market, particularly across junior to mid-senior levels such as Treasury Analyst, Treasury Accountant, and Treasury Manager jobs, the hiring journey often begins with a job description. But while the JD sets the stage, the real substance tends to emerge during the client briefing call.

At Brewer Morris, we partner with hiring managers across markets like commerce and industry, financial services, real estate, and corporate finance, supporting roles within the finance function such as Financial Controller, Head of Treasury, and Treasury Manager. We know both sources of information are essential, yet they don’t always tell the same story. For treasury professionals and jobseekers navigating their job search, understanding how these two inputs differ, and how they complement each other, can be the key to securing a competitive salary and the right cultural fit.

The job description: a starting point, not the full picture

Think of the JD as the formal outline. Usually written by HR or the hiring manager, it covers:

• Reporting lines
• Core responsibilities
• Required experience and qualifications
• A glimpse into company culture

It’s structured, often standardised, and sometimes recycled from previous hiring rounds. While useful, it rarely captures the nuances of what the treasury function truly needs, whether that’s cash management, liquidity, risk management, or treasury operations.

The client briefing call: where the real insight lives

This is where we uncover the finer details. A live conversation with the hiring manager reveals:

• The real priorities for the role
• Gaps in the current treasury team
• Personality traits that would thrive in the team
• Internal context, growth plans, challenges, and politics
• What’s flexible vs what’s non-negotiable

We often hear things like

“We’ve listed five years’ experience, but we’d consider three if they’ve worked in a fast-paced environment.”

“The JD mentions FX exposure, but what we really need is someone who can take ownership of cash flow forecasting from day one.”

Why both matter

Structure and substance
The JD provides a framework. The briefing call adds colour. Together, they allow us to position the role accurately and advise candidates effectively, whether it’s a full-time, FTC, or on-site opportunity.

Assessing fit
The JD helps candidates self-assess. The briefing call enables us to assess true fit, beyond the bullet points, and guide candidates on how to tailor their CVs and interview approach.

Managing expectations
The JD sets baseline expectations. The briefing call helps us manage real-time ones—timelines, urgency, and flexibility.

Where they can conflict

• Outdated JDs: Some haven’t been updated in years and no longer reflect the team’s current structure or business needs.
• Misaligned priorities: The JD may focus on technical skills, while the manager is prioritising stakeholder engagement, adaptability, or decision making.
• Generic language: JDs often lack specificity around deliverables and what success looks like in the role, especially in areas like financial planning, financial reporting, or treasury reporting.

Advice for candidates

Whether you’re working with a recruiter or applying directly, curiosity is key.

Ask the right questions:

• Are there flexibilities around the JD requirements?
• What did the hiring manager emphasise in the briefing call?
• What kind of personality or working style fits best with the team?

Don’t hesitate to reach out to the hiring recruitment consultant. A tailored CV and a short, thoughtful message that shows you understand the role beyond the JD can make a real impact, especially in competitive markets like Treasury Analyst jobs, or Treasury Manager jobs.

Final thoughts

In recruitment, the job description is the map. The client briefing call is the GPS.

One shows the route. The other reveals the traffic, shortcuts, and the real destination.

If you’re navigating the treasury career landscape, make sure you’re using both. And if you’re signed up to a job alert, remember: the successful candidate is often the one who understands not just the role, but the context behind it.

For more insights, download our latest salary guide or speak to one of our consultants about your next hire in treasury operations, risk management, or the wider finance function.