Professor of Human Capital Management
- University: University of the Free State (UFS)
- Faculty: Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences – UFS Business School
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State
- Job ID: 6587
- Employment Type: Permanent
- Occupational Level: Middle Management
- Closing Date: 17 September 2026
- Salary: Available on request
- Assumption of Duty: As soon as possible
Job Overview
The University of the Free State is seeking an experienced Associate Professor or Professor of Human Capital Management to join the UFS Business School. The successful candidate will contribute to teaching, postgraduate supervision, research, academic leadership, executive education, industry engagement and strategic development within Human Resource Management and Human Capital Management.
The position requires an established academic and research profile, combined with relevant HR practitioner or industry experience.
Key Responsibilities
- Supervise PGDip, MBA, Master’s and PhD students.
- Teach Human Capital Management, Talent Management, Strategic HRM, Organisational Behaviour, Labour Relations and related subjects.
- Develop and deliver high-quality undergraduate, postgraduate and executive education materials.
- Conduct and lead high-quality research in HRM/Human Capital Management and related disciplines.
- Develop and present Short Learning Programmes (SLPs).
- Participate in programme development and enhancement.
- Provide Business School consulting services to external organisations.
- Perform academic administration, including assessment, marking and recording of student results.
- Participate in academic committees and leadership activities.
- Engage in mentorship, community activities and professional training.
- Build relationships with industry leaders and the broader business community.
- Contribute to the strategic vision and academic leadership of the UFS Business School.
- Identify and pursue opportunities for external research funding.
- Participate in national and international academic networks and debates.
Requirements – Associate Professor
Applicants should have:
- A PhD (NQF Level 10) in Human Resource Management, Human Capital Management or a closely related discipline.
- Proven undergraduate and/or postgraduate teaching experience.
- Experience as an external examiner for postgraduate students.
- Evidence of presenting peer-reviewed research at national conferences.
- Experience serving on the editorial board of high-quality national scholarly journals.
- National recognition for specialist expertise and research leadership.
- An NRF C3 rating, equivalent status, or eligibility to apply in the next cycle.
- Experience supervising Master’s students through to graduation.
- A strong publication record in accredited national and international journals.
- Membership of a relevant national scholarly society, committee or research agency, or an international equivalent.
- Relevant industry experience as an HR Practitioner.
Requirements – Professor
Applicants should have:
- A PhD (NQF Level 10) in Human Resource Management, Human Capital Management or a closely related discipline.
- Proven undergraduate and/or postgraduate teaching experience.
- Experience as an external examiner for Master’s and doctoral students.
- Editorial board experience with high-quality international/ISI/IBSS journals.
- A significant and sustained research portfolio over the past eight years.
- Publications in high-quality accredited national and international journals.
- International recognition for specialist academic expertise and research leadership.
- An NRF C3 rating, equivalent status, or eligibility to apply in the next cycle.
- Successful supervision of graduated Master’s and preferably doctoral students.
- Practical expertise in HRM or related disciplines.
- Demonstrated ability to generate third-stream income.
- Experience delivering keynote addresses at national scholarly conferences.
- Evidence of public engagement and research dissemination.
- Membership of an international scholarly society or relevant international research committee/agency.
- Relevant industry experience as an HR Practitioner.
Recommended Skills & Experience
The UFS recommends candidates with:
- At least five years’ proven expertise and practical experience in HR, Human Capital or a related field.
- International cooperation experience.
- Strong knowledge of labour legislation, Human Capital practices and organisational behaviour.
- Knowledge of digital transformation and modern HCM technologies.
- Ability to communicate research findings to different audiences.
- Industry engagement and experience securing funding.
- Data-analysis skills using IBM SPSS, AMOS and PLS.
- Membership or registration with a relevant professional body.
- Experience as a departmental leader or manager within higher education.
Key Competencies
The successful candidate should demonstrate:
Results Orientation
- Ability to set high standards and achieve challenging goals.
- Adaptability in a changing environment.
Strategic Thinking
- Ability to manage multiple activities.
- Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.
Business Acumen
- Understanding of local, continental and global business education trends.
- Knowledge of contemporary blended education methods and HRM practices.
- Ability to identify and integrate emerging HRM trends into curricula.
- Ability to network and attract research and practice funding.
Leadership
- High levels of motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
- Ability to collaborate and encourage teamwork.
Building Coalitions
- Strong negotiation, influencing and persuasion skills.
- Ability to build professional relationships and networks.
Benefits
Fringe benefits are subject to applicable conditions and include:
- Pension scheme
- Medical aid scheme
- Group life insurance
- Housing allowance
- Leave and sick leave
- Service bonus
- Study benefits