REACHING THE PEAK OF TREASURY QUALIFICATIONS—ALL FOR HIS CLIENTS
David Johnson, Director of Structured Business Group EMEA for Mitsubishi UFJ Securities, tackled the MCT, completing it in 2016. Here he talks us through the benefits it has offered him in his role, demonstrating that the highest level treasury qualification isn't just suitable for treasurers.
What does your current role entail?
I provide structured financing, risk management and structured investment solutions to financial institutions across Europe, Middle East and Asia.
Why and how did you end up in a career in treasury/finance?
At the end of my second year of university I was approached by a recruitment company who put me forward for the Lloyds TSB (now Lloyds Banking Group) Corporate Markets graduate programme. I successfully gained a place to start with Lloyds after the completion of my degree.
What do you think are the most important skills/strengths you need to make a success of what you do?
I think this line of work requires entrepreneurial attitude and the ability to learn financial concepts quickly. But, like lots of jobs out there, you also really need the ability to juggle multiple tasks.
Why did you take the MCT?
I decided to study for MCT to improve my knowledge of corporate finance and risk management. I also wanted to be able to see things from the perspective of my clients, primarily treasurers and financial Directors. Knowing my customers better allows me to provide the best solutions.
What was your experience of studying for the MCT?
I found the MCT course extremely useful as a way to improve my treasury, corporate finance and risk management skills. The method of course delivery was also very good, with the forum-based peer reviews proving particularly useful given the diversity of backgrounds of my fellow students
Are there particular areas of treasury/finance that this qualification helped you understand even better?
It has given me a better insight into the risk and return area and how corporate value is measured in order to be able to maximise shareholder value. I’ve also learned how to apply the risk management framework when handling different financial risks, which is extremely valuable.
Which specific areas of your job role will this qualification support?
Having MCT behind me will allow me to improve the scope and quality of discussions with my clients in the areas of risk management and structured funding.