CTP Profile Nancy G. Kinman

Treasury faces a host of challenges and uncertainties on a daily basis. National headlines are peppered with stories about offshore outsourcing, corrupt business practices, layoffs and a lack of fresh talent in the field. As such, you've probably found yourself on the wrong side of one of these less-than-encouraging issues. But there's light at the end of the tunnel if you arm yourself with the right education and training.

My bump in the road came in September 2002, when my position with The David J. Joseph Company was eliminated. If I hadn't been motivated and dedicated to learning and networking from day one, I would have been just another unemployed statistic.

Introduction to Treasury

I got my start in treasury management in 1993 at The Joseph Company when I was promoted to cash manager. Even after several years with the company, I had no "official" treasury background experience. I immediately sought assistance from AFP and its certification review course. The intensive seminar packed the most important information required of a treasury professional into three days, and gave me the confidence to manage the company's treasury function.

In 1997, I set my sights on earning AFP's Certified Cash Manager (CCM) credential. [AFP converted this program to the Certified Treasury Professional, or CTP, in May 2003.] Studying for the exam was a personal and professional challenge. I was being held accountable for the treasury function of The Joseph Company and the credential would make a statement about my commitment to the job, the organization and my continuing education.

I immediately began applying the concepts I learned from the preparation course and the Essentials of Cash Management, the body of knowledge upon which the credential is based, to my day-to-day responsibilities. And one year later, the certification played a role in my promotion to assistant treasurer.

Then came that fateful day in September 2002 when my position was eliminated.

Certification Has Merit

After being downsized in September 2002, I thrust myself into "networking-mode" to find a new job. It was a hard road, but during the process, I came across an important finding: Those three initials behind my name put me ahead of the competition. The designation carried with it a level of distinction and established knowledge. Several potential employers I met with each understood what it took for me to earn and maintain the designation.

"Those three initials behind my name put me ahead of the competition."

I ultimately landed a position with Fifth Third Bank as a product support manager in February 2003. The bank recognized the perspective I could bring from the corporate side, plus the knowledge and experience I brought as a user of treasury products and services. Four months later, I was promoted to assistant vice president in Cash Management Operations.

It's important that I stay on top of new trends in treasury. For this reason I transitioned to the CTP. The depth and focus of the credential better reflects my current, and future, job responsibilities. And, because of my commitment to staying abreast of industry developments, my colleagues can rely on me to support customers and assist the Sales force out in the field.

A Lifetime of Learning

Although the job market constantly changes, I can depend on the value of my CTP credential. We're all very busy, but we must keep a commitment to go above and beyond our level of expertise. Maintaining the credential demonstrates initiative and makes you a better employee for the organization. And that's the real selling point.

As Vice President at Fifth Third Bank in Cincinnati, OH, Nancy Kinman, CTP, manages the centralized Product Support team. This department is responsible for the implementation and maintenance of treasury management products and services for commercial clients. 513.358.1358 or NancyG.Kinman@53.com.

A Commitment to Education and Certification Pays Off
Read how it has paid off for Nancy Kinman, CTP.