Not all organizations are progressing at the same pace. The 2025 data from GSCF’s Working Capital Leadership Report identify a distinct group. 24% of respondents are classified as “Working Capital Champions,” and are setting a new standard for liquidity leadership.
What differentiates these leaders is not access to more tools and data, but how they use them. Champions are significantly more likely to report advanced automation, cross-functional ownership and executive sponsorship of working capital initiatives.
The impact is tangible. Champions consistently report stronger confidence in forecasts, faster cash conversion cycles and more resilient supplier relationships. Rather than relying on blanket term extensions, they segment suppliers and align payment strategies to risk and value.
For companies still early in their journey, the message is clear: progress does not start with perfection. It starts with leadership, collaboration and a commitment to treating working capital as a strategic asset.
Key Takeaways
- Working Capital Champions differentiate themselves through data, governance, leadership and collaboration rather than tools alone.
- Executive sponsorship and cross-functional ownership are consistent traits among high performers.
- Sustainable liquidity improvement is cultural as much as it is technical.
How GSCF Helps
GSCF provides a single platform to originate, manage and analyze working capital programs, replacing fragmented systems and data with connected operational insight.
With C4 (Connected Capital Control Center), coming soon, Working Capital Champions gain centralized governance and oversight across global working capital portfolios, supporting executive sponsorship and disciplined execution. C4 provides leadership teams with a consistent, portfolio-wide view of working capital performance and exposure, reinforcing data discipline and cross-functional alignment.
Learn more: Download the Working Capital Leadership Report