Evolving Finance into the Strategic Leadership

Treasury is on the edge of a new era. No longer just the gatekeepers of liquidity, treasury teams are stepping into a more strategic role. Now, they’re helping shape company direction, not just protect it. 

This shift is partly driven by external factors like economic volatility, globalisation, rising interest rates, and increasingly complex risk environments. But it’s also about recognising treasury’s unique vantage point: “[Treasury] sees every inflow and outflow, connects with every department, and understands the macro risks businesses face,” says Jérémie Bouguéon, Product Marketing Lead at Pleo.

With the right mindset, tools, and capabilities, treasury evolves into a powerful business partner. One that guides growth, makes proactive decisions, and helps navigate the future. 

Looking back: The traditional role of treasury 

“Traditionally, treasury was a reactive, operational function,” explains Jeremie. That meant the focus was on core tasks like managing cash, ensuring liquidity, maintaining bank relationships, and processing payments. “The goal was to support smooth day-to-day business operations and safeguard financial stability.” 

But this gatekeeper-style role created a barrier with the rest of the company and left treasury out of the loop during strategic business decisions. 

That might’ve worked in the past, but not anymore. The world has shifted, and with it, the expectations of what treasury should deliver.