AFP's 2008 Compensation Report shows that treasury and financial professionals saw salary increases that were significantly higher than national workforce averages," said Jim Kaitz, President and CEO of AFP. "Treasury and financial professionals at all levels are delivering great value to organizations. They are demonstrating analytical and strategic decision-making skills; the desire to earn advanced certifications and degrees; and the desire to move their careers forward and work hard to make organizations succeed."

In 2007, executive level financial professionals received the highest percentage increases in base salaries among all categories of treasury/finance professionals and staff. On average, executive level financial professionals garnered a 5.1 percent salary increase during the 12-month period studied.

The average increase for management positions was 4.8 percent, with the Manager of Treasury and Finance position receiving the highest salary increase - 6.6 percent. Staff level financial professionals averaged salary increases of just below 4 percent.

The 2008 survey also reported that bonuses could add significantly to a financial professional's total compensation package. On average, financial professionals received bonuses equivalent to 16 percent of their base salary in 2007. Executive level financial professionals received the largest average bonuses (both in total dollars received and as a percentage of their base salary), while support level staff received the smallest average bonuses.

Data from the survey also suggests that there are substantial salary differences between those professionals with advanced degrees and those without. On average, professionals with an MBA earn an average salary 19 percent higher than do their counterparts who hold just a bachelor's degree. Other factors cited in the survey that determine salary compensation included:

• Increased Job Responsibility;
• Certifications such as the CTP, CPA, CIA or CFA;
• Contribution to Profitability;
• Job Location; and
• Type of Industry.

An Executive Summary of AFP's 2008 Compensation Report is available at www.AFPonline.org/research