This lesson examines the importance of leadership and management in building stakeholder relationships and optimising treasury performance . The ACT Diploma syllabus requires candidates to “examine the importance of leadership and management in building stakeholder relationships and optimising performance, including the application of relevant theories” .

1.1. The Role of Leadership in Treasury

Leadership has been identified as the most critical skill for treasurers in 2026, with 45% of treasury professionals citing it as essential for navigating financial challenges . Effective treasury leadership blends prudent cash and liquidity management with intellectual curiosity, a willingness to embrace emerging technology, and a commitment to continuous learning and creative problem-solving . EY’s Global DNA of the Treasurer Survey 2025 reports that 59% of CFOs believe the CFO role should be the ultimate career ambition for a treasurer, with 14% saying they should aim for the CEO’s job .

1.2. Management Theories and Their Application

The Diploma syllabus covers managing and leading treasury teams, individuals, and oneself . This includes applying relevant management theories to:

  • Team Development: Building high-performing treasury teams through clear objectives, empowerment, and recognition.

  • Performance Management: Setting SMART objectives, conducting performance reviews, and providing constructive feedback.

  • Delegation and Empowerment: Assigning tasks effectively and enabling team members to take ownership.

1.3. Managing Internal and External Relationships

Treasury leaders must manage relationships with both internal stakeholders and external partners . The syllabus specifically covers “managing and leading on internal and external treasury relationships” . As treasury increasingly intersects with procurement, operations, tax, legal, and corporate strategy, treasurers must clearly articulate financial insights to non-specialist stakeholders . Treasury groups that cultivate strong leaders consistently outperform, optimising working capital, anticipating risks earlier, and deploying liquidity to fuel business growth . 

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