The Treasury Career Corner Building Treasury Careers - How Houston’s Top Treasurers Make Themselves and Their Teams Visible
What does it take to thrive as a treasury leader in today’s complex business environment?
In this engaging panel discussion recorded LIVE at our recent event in Houston, we bring together three powerhouse treasury professionals - Brook Ballard, Jordan Timberlake, and Fred Schacknies - who pull back the curtain on their careers, leadership philosophies, and the real-world challenges they’ve faced.
In this episode you’ll hear how they transitioned from banking and early finance roles into strategic treasury leadership, how they drive performance in hybrid teams, and why visibility, collaboration, and a strong sense of purpose are key to long-term success.
Whether you're building your career or managing a treasury function, this candid conversation delivers invaluable insights and practical takeaways straight from the top of the profession.
Meet the Guests:
- Brook Ballard – Most recently the Treasurer of Oceaneering International
A veteran treasury leader with experience spanning Anadarko, Live Nation, AIG, Cheniere, and Oceaneering. Brook shares insights from building treasury functions across diverse industries.
- Jordan Timberlake – Vice President, Treasurer and Investment Operations at Memorial Hermann Health System
Former banker turned treasury executive, Jordan discusses her career growth, managing investments and debt, and fostering team development in a major U.S. health system.
- Fred Schacknies – Vice President & Treasurer at TechnipFMC
With a global background in FX, operations, and systems, Fred explores how treasury leadership has shifted from numbers to people and process.
Main topics discussed:
- Career journeys from banking and other industries into treasury leadership
- Building, scaling, and motivating treasury teams
- The impact of hybrid work and how it shapes collaboration in treasury
- The importance of cross-functional relationships and “Treasury 101” education
- Strategies to increase the visibility and impact of the treasury function
- Internships and talent pipeline development in treasury
- The importance of identifying your “why” in your career
- Advice for junior professionals on preparing for leadership roles
- Creating metrics-driven environments and aligning treasury with corporate goals
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