Department Chair (Finance)

Lead the Future of Finance at Auburn University

The Raymond J. Harbert College of Business at Auburn University invites applications and nominations for the Department Chair of Finance, a leadership role at one of the nation’s rising business schools. We seek an accomplished scholar and dynamic leader to guide a highly productive faculty, foster continued excellence in teaching and research, and strengthen the department’s role in fulfilling the college’s strategic mission.

About the Role

Department Chair is a full-time, tenured faculty appointment with administrative responsibility for academic programs, faculty development, research advancement, external engagement, and budgetary oversight. The Chair will continue shaping the department’s vision, cultivating a culture of academic excellence, and representing the department within the college, across the university, and to the broader business and alumni community.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and day-to-day management of the Department of Finance
• Promote and support a strong research culture aligned with the college’s reputation for scholarly impact
• Advance excellence in teaching across undergraduate, master’s (including MBA), and PhD programs
• Recruit, mentor, and retain talented faculty and staff
• Steward the department’s resources and budget effectively
• Strengthen relationships with industry partners, alumni, and donors
• Collaborate effectively with other department Chairs and college leadership to pursue strategic initiatives

About the Department & Programs

The Department of Finance includes 14 tenure-track faculty, 5 lecturers, 2 staff dedicated to undergrad professional development, and 6–8 adjuncts per semester. With over 1,000 majors, it is the largest department in Auburn’s largest college. The department’s undergraduate program is distinguished by strong placement in investment banking and high starting salaries. Faculty research spans top journals (including Journal of Finance, Journal of Financial Economics, Review of Financial Studies), and the department offers both Ph.D. and M.S. degrees in Finance.

Why Auburn? Why Harbert?

Auburn University is a top-tier public research institution and one of the most respected universities in the nation. The Harbert College of Business is home to more than 7,000 students and ranked among the top 50 public business schools by U.S. News & World Report. The college is known for its commitment to excellence, robust corporate engagement, and its forward-looking approach to business education.

Located in the vibrant college town of Auburn, Alabama—regularly ranked among the best places to live in the U.S.—the university offers a high quality of life, a collaborative campus culture, and access to diverse natural and metropolitan amenities. Auburn University is understanding of and sensitive to the family needs of faculty, including dual-career couples.

Auburn University is an EEO/Vet/Disability employer.

Minimum Qualifications

Qualifications

• PhD in Finance or a closely related field from an AACSB-accredited institution at the time employment begins
• Academic record meriting appointment with tenure at a Carnegie R1 institution
• Demonstrated commitment to innovative, student-centered pedagogy
• Proven leadership experience in higher education
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills

Desired Qualifications

(Not specified in detail)

Application Information

Review of applications will begin September 10, 2025 and continue until the position is filled. Rank and salary will be competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications. Candidates must meet eligibility requirements to work in the U.S. at the time of appointment and continue working legally throughout employment.

To apply, please submit a letter of interest, curriculum vitae, and contact information for at least three references. All application materials should be submitted to: https://www.auemployment.com/postings/55434