MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• A PhD (NQF level 10) in Information Systems, Business Analytics, Management, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence or a related field, with scholarly expertise in business and management applications.
• Demonstrated academic leadership in programmes, research or institutional initiatives, including mentoring of emerging academics.
• A minimum of ten (10) years of appropriate work experience of which five (5) years were in a higher education context, preferably within a business school.
• A strong, sustained record of publications in accredited and internationally recognised journals relevant to the specialisation, with evidence of scholarly influence and research leadership.
• Successful supervision of both master’s and doctoral candidates to completion.

ADDED ADVANTAGES & PREFERENCES:

• A minimum of five (5) years’ relevant industry-related experience.
• Experience in digital transformation, business analytics or AI adoption.
• Executive education, consulting and professional practice are advantageous.
• National Research Foundation (NRF) rating.

JOB DESCRIPTION
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Teaching and Learning

• Lead teaching in digital transformation, business analytics and AI for management on postgraduate and executive programmes, including the MBA and Postgraduate Diploma in Management.
• Lead curriculum development, review and innovation in line with academic, industry and accreditation requirements.
• Create engaging learning environments across face-to-face, blended, and online delivery modes.
• Supervise MBA, master’s and doctoral research in digital transformation, business analytics and AI in management to completion, supporting ethical research, timely progress and publication.
• Lead contributions to quality assurance, assurance of learning and accreditation, using evidence to improve teaching and learning.

Research and Innovation

• Lead a sustained research programme on digital transformation, data driven decisions, AI adoption and responsible AI governance.
• Publish in accredited and internationally recognised academic journals.
• Mentor emerging researchers and supervisors and build postgraduate research capacity.
• Develop and lead national and international research collaborations and networks.
• Pursue external research funding and grant opportunities.

Academic Leadership and Service

• Provide Professor-level academic leadership and contribute to the School’s strategy and institutional development.
• Contribute to programme development, curriculum enhancement, and strategic initiatives.
• Participate in School, Faculty, and University committees and governance structures.
• Mentor postgraduate students and emerging academics in teaching, research and supervision.
• Contribute to accreditation, quality assurance, and institutional development activities.

Engagement and partnerships

• Build and maintain partnerships with businesses, technology partners, government and professional bodies, alongside international collaborators.
• Contribute to executive education, consulting, and knowledge-transfer activities.
• Participate in public scholarship, thought leadership, and media engagement.
• Advance responsible digital adoption, managerial decision quality and organisational digital capability through engagement and demonstrate societal impact.
• Advance the School's internationalisation and partnership agenda.

Resource Mobilisation and Sustainability

• Contribute to third-stream income generation through executive education, consulting, and customised programmes.
• Identify and pursue opportunities for research funding, sponsorships, and strategic partnerships.
• Support fundraising and resource mobilisation initiatives aligned with the School's strategic priorities.
• Contribute to stakeholder engagement and business development activities.
• Enhance the reputation, visibility, and sustainability of the NWU Business School.

KEY FUNCTIONAL/TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:

• Demonstrated excellence in postgraduate teaching, supervision and curriculum development in digital transformation, business analytics and AI in management.
• Advanced expertise in digital strategy, business analytics and AI applications, including data quality, model limitations and responsible AI governance.
• Experience in blended, online, and technology-enhanced learning environments.
• Ability to build and maintain productive partnerships with industry, government, professional bodies, and international collaborators.
• Ability to critically evaluate analytical and AI methods, translate evidence into managerial decisions and assess organisational and societal implications. Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

KEY BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

• Academic leadership and the ability to inspire and develop students and colleagues.
• Strong interpersonal and collaborative skills, with the ability to work effectively in diverse environments.
• Commitment to excellence, integrity, and ethical conduct.
• Results-oriented, with strong planning, organisational, and execution capabilities.
• Commitment to transformation, diversity, inclusion, and responsible leadership.

Remuneration: The annual total remuneration package will be commensurate with the level of appointment as advertised and in line with the NWU policy guidelines. 

ENQUIRIES REGARDING JOB CONTENT MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Prof Joseph Sekhampu on 018 299 4019

ENQUIRIES REGARDING RECRUITMENT PROCESS MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Moratuwa Motsemme on 018 299 4958

CLOSING DATE: 30 October 2026

PLANNED COMMENCEMENT OF DUTIES: 01 February 2027 

Kindly take note: applications must be submitted online through the official nwu vacancy website.

Incomplete applications and those submitted through any other platform will not be considered.

The University subscribes to and applies the principles of Employment Equity (EE) Act and is committed to transformation. Preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups, in accordance with the principles of the EE Act and NWU Employment Equity Plan.

The University reserves the right not to make an appointment. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.

If you are not contacted within two months from the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.