Why CFOs should consider hiring interim treasury to strengthen their finance function

In today’s competitive business environment, chief financial officers (CFOs) are under increasing pressure to deliver strategic value while maintaining operational excellence. One area that demands both technical precision and strategic foresight is treasury. As financial markets evolve and the demand for specialized treasury talent intensifies, many CFOs are turning to interim treasury professionals to support their corporate finance function. This approach not only addresses immediate needs but also strengthens the long-term capabilities of the treasury team.

Navigating complex financial environments with deep expertise

Treasury operations are increasingly impacted by global economic shifts, regulatory changes, and evolving risk landscapes. Interim treasury professionals bring current expertise and an in-depth understanding of liquidity management, cash flow forecasting, and financial risk mitigation. Their ability to quickly assess exposure and ensure compliance with internal policies and external regulations is especially valuable in multinational organizations with complex cash structures and funding requirements.

Supporting strategic transactions with the right talent

Whether it’s a refinancing, acquisition, merger, or capital restructuring, strategic transactions require precise treasury planning. Interim professionals can step in as treasury managers, analysts, or advisors to support due diligence, model cash flow impacts, and structure funding strategies for optimal outcomes. Their financial expertise and transactional experience make them the right talent for high-stakes projects where timing and accuracy are critical.

Bridging vacancies and managing transitions

Unexpected vacancies in the treasury function, such as resignations, parental leave, or internal promotions, can disrupt operations. The recruitment process for full-time roles can be lengthy, especially when searching for qualified candidates with niche skill sets. Interim professionals help bridge these gaps, ensuring continuity while the CFO and HR team conduct a thorough executive search.

Platforms like LinkedIn and specialized recruitment agencies, such as Brewer Morris, play a key role in sourcing interim talent. These channels offer access to a broader talent pool, including passive candidates who may not be actively seeking a new role but are open to short-term or project-based opportunities. Interim professionals can also assist with onboarding new hires, ensuring a smooth transition and effective communication within the treasury team.

Enhancing compliance and reducing risk

Treasury compliance is a cornerstone of financial integrity. Interim professionals bring a proven track record of managing cash controls, banking relationships, and regulatory reporting. Their presence helps reduce the risk of liquidity shortfalls, covenant breaches, and reputational damage. For companies undergoing audits or regulatory reviews, having a top-tier interim expert on board can make a significant difference in financial reporting and risk management.

Driving efficiency and unlocking value

Beyond compliance, interim treasury experts can identify opportunities to improve working capital, streamline financial processes, and enhance funding strategies. Their market insight and familiarity with treasury trends allow them to recommend initiatives such as centralizing cash management, renegotiating banking terms, and implementing treasury technology solutions. These efforts can deliver measurable value and position the company for long-term success.

Leveraging recruitment services for treasury talent

The demand for treasury talent continues to rise, making it challenging to fill roles quickly with the best candidates. CFOs often rely on recruitment services that specialize in the treasury function to streamline the hiring process. These firms offer access to an extensive network of professionals and can match candidates to the company’s specific needs, whether for in-house, full-time, or interim treasury roles.

By partnering with agencies that understand the nuances of treasury recruitment, CFOs can reduce time-to-hire and improve the quality of their hires. These agencies also provide valuable market insight into compensation benchmarks, candidate availability, and emerging treasury roles, including interim CFO services.

Supporting ESG and transparency initiatives

As environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting becomes more prominent, treasury transparency is gaining attention. Interim professionals can help develop ESG-aligned treasury strategies and prepare disclosures that reflect responsible financial stewardship. Their ability to align treasury practices with broader sustainability goals adds strategic value to the finance function and enhances stakeholder trust.

Hiring an interim treasury professional is more than a stopgap solution, it’s a strategic move that empowers CFOs to maintain agility, ensure compliance, and drive value. Whether filling job openings, supporting a new role, or navigating a complex transaction, interim professionals bring the top talent and specific skills needed to elevate the treasury function.

By leveraging executive search, recruitment services, and platforms like LinkedIn, CFOs can access a robust talent pool of qualified candidates, including passive candidates, who are ready to contribute from day one. In a competitive treasury recruitment landscape, the ability to secure the best talent quickly and efficiently can be a decisive advantage in building a high-performing finance team.

Overall considerations

Expanding the treasury function with interim support also allows CFOs to test new financial strategies without committing to permanent hires. This flexibility is particularly useful during times of transition, such as IPO preparation, restructuring, or rapid growth. Interim professionals can provide a fresh perspective on existing financial processes and help identify inefficiencies that may be hindering performance.

For example, during an IPO, interim treasury experts can assist with financial planning, cash flow management, and regulatory compliance. Their wealth of experience in financial reporting and decision-making ensures that the company is well-prepared for scrutiny from board members and external stakeholders. These professionals can also help build robust financial models that support long-term success and financial stability.

In addition to transactional support, interim hires can contribute to broader business needs. They can work closely with the finance director and other team members to align treasury operations with corporate objectives. Their adaptability and financial expertise make them valuable assets in navigating financial challenges and achieving financial goals.

CFOs may also consider interim CFO services when facing leadership gaps or when a permanent CFO is unavailable. These professionals bring financial leadership and a proven track record in managing complex financial issues. Their involvement can be cost-effective, especially when compared to the long recruitment process for permanent roles.

Moreover, interim professionals can support initiatives aimed at improving financial management and streamlining operations. Whether it’s implementing new financial systems, enhancing cash flow forecasting, or optimizing working capital, their contributions can lead to measurable improvements. Their insights into financial risks and strategies help organizations remain resilient in a dynamic business environment.

Effective communication is another key benefit of hiring interim treasury professionals. They can bridge gaps between departments, facilitate onboarding of new hires, and ensure a smooth transition during times of change. Their ability to collaborate with stakeholders and team members fosters a cohesive finance team that is aligned with the company’s strategic vision.

Ultimately, the decision to hire interim treasury talent should be guided by specific project requirements and organizational goals. Whether addressing short-term needs or supporting long-term initiatives, these professionals offer a flexible and impactful solution. Their involvement can help companies overcome specific challenges, improve financial operations, and position the business for sustainable growth.

How Brewer Morris can help you source interim treasury talent

At Brewer Morris, we have a network of reliable treasury contractors who are always on the lookout for their next assignment. If you would like to hire strategic interim support for your business, please submit a brief and a member of our team will be in touch.

Alternatively, if you are a treasury professional looking for an interim role, check out our latest jobs.