Lecturer/Senior Lecturer/Associate Professor in Finance/Banking (Job ID: 6226)
The University of the Free State invites applications for the position of Lecturer/Senior Lecturer/Associate Professor in Finance/Banking. This is a career-defining opportunity for academics passionate about teaching, research, and developing the next generation of finance and banking professionals. The successful candidate will be responsible for delivering high-quality teaching, producing impactful research, contributing to curriculum development, and playing an active role in departmental leadership and professional affiliations such as the CFA Institute. This position offers the chance to shape the academic and professional landscape of finance and banking, while being part of a supportive, research-academic community.
Job Overview:
- Company/Institution: University of the Free State (UFS)
- Department: Economics and Finance – Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State, South Africa
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Closing Date: 3 September 2025
Company Overview
The University of the Free State (UFS) is one of South Africa’s premier institutions of higher education and research. With a commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and transformation, the university serves as a hub of knowledge creation and dissemination. UFS is dedicated to producing research that is internationally recognized, while fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion across its academic and administrative structures. The Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences plays a central role in advancing scholarship in finance, banking, and economics, while contributing meaningfully to South Africa’s socioeconomic development.
Key Responsibilities
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Teach undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Finance and Banking, including areas such as financial risk management, derivatives, investment/portfolio management, and corporate finance.
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Develop, refine, and implement curriculum and teaching resources in line with global standards.
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Conduct research and publish in accredited journals (with emphasis on Q1 and Q2 rated publications).
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Mentor, supervise, and support Honours, Master’s, and PhD students.
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Disseminate research through conferences, workshops, and seminars at both national and international levels.
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Manage professional accreditation partnerships such as the CFA Institute relationship.
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Contribute to departmental administration, marketing, and community engagement initiatives.
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Serve on university committees and foster a collaborative, collegial academic environment.
Inherent Requirements
Lecturer
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PhD in Finance/Banking (or Master’s degree with contractual requirement to complete a PhD within 5 years).
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CFA/FRM designation (or proof of progress towards it).
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Evidence of potential research and conference presentations.
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A strong academic record.
Senior Lecturer
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PhD in Finance/Banking.
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Proven track record of publications and conference presentations.
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CFA/FRM designation (or proof of progress towards it).
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National recognition and experience in supervising Master’s students.
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Evidence of potential or existing NRF rating.
Associate Professor
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PhD in Finance/Banking.
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Extensive publication record in accredited journals.
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CFA/FRM designation (or proof of progress towards it).
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National and international recognition as a research leader.
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Proven supervision of Master’s and PhD graduates.
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NRF rating or potential to obtain within 3 years.
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Experience serving on scholarly committees and editorial boards.
Recommended Skills and Competencies
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Expertise in finance-related software (Eviews, Stata, SmartPLS, SPSS, Amos).
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Proficiency in coding languages (Python or R).
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Experience in curriculum design and higher education teaching.
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Excellent research record with international visibility.
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Strong interpersonal, leadership, and coalition-building skills.
Competencies Required
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Results Orientation: Ability to adapt to change and remain focused under pressure.
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Strategic Thinking: Attention to detail, logical problem-solving, and structured work approach.
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Business Acumen: Strong administrative discipline, adherence to regulations, and proficiency in MS Office.
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Leadership: Capacity to guide, collaborate, and foster teamwork.
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Coalition Building: Ability to network, influence, and create strong professional relationships.
Salary & Benefits
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Salary: Available on request.
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Fringe Benefits: Pension scheme, medical aid, group life insurance, housing allowance, annual service bonus, leave benefits, and study benefits (subject to conditions).
Application Process
All applications must be submitted online only via the UFS vacancy website: https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll
Applications submitted through other channels will not be considered.
Required documents:
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Detailed CV
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Copies of qualifications (with SAQA accreditation for foreign qualifications)
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Identity document/passport
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Proof of employment (appointment letter, service certificate, or payslip)
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Academic transcripts and proof of CFA/FRM registration or completion
Closing Date: 3 September 2025
Employment Equity Statement
The University of the Free State is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Preference will be given to candidates from underrepresented designated groups and persons with disabilities, in line with the University’s Employment Equity Plan.
For enquiries: Contact 051 401 2558 or email ManzanaL@ufs.ac.za / Recruit@ufs.ac.za. For technical assistance, call 051 401 9813/2979.