The University of Otago is looking to bolster its highly-regarded Department of Accountancy and Finance with the appointment of two new full-time, permanent lecturers or senior lecturers. The roles are intended to enhance the department’s existing strengths in teaching and research, contributing to its standing within the top-ranked Otago Business School.
Based at the university's historic Dunedin campus, the positions promise a dynamic academic environment. The successful candidates will be responsible for teaching at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, supervising research students, and maintaining a productive, independent research programme.
The Otago Business School is recognised as New Zealand's leader in research and holds prestigious EQUIS and AACSB accreditations, placing it in the top echelon of business schools globally. The Department of Accountancy and Finance itself has a long and storied history at the university, with its programmes accredited by major professional bodies including CA ANZ, CPA Australia, and ACCA. It is also a CFA Programme Partner, ensuring its curriculum is aligned with global industry standards.
A strong history of excellence
The department prides itself on a culture that nurtures both outstanding teachers and researchers. This commitment is reflected in the success of its students, who consistently feature on the Dean's list of outstanding students and are highly sought after by leading employers both in New Zealand and internationally.
Collaboration and collegiality are cornerstones of the department's ethos. The university is seeking candidates who will thrive in and contribute to this cooperative work environment. A commitment to equity and diversity is also paramount, with the university valuing the unique perspectives new staff can bring to its community.
As part of its commitment to local heritage, the university expects new staff to uphold the values, tikanga, and traditions guided by Ngāi Tahu, who are the mana whenua of the region. While not essential, previous experience in the accounting industry and professional accountancy qualifications are considered desirable attributes for potential candidates.
Focus on research and teaching
A key focus for the new appointees will be research. The department has a robust and growing research profile that spans critical areas of modern accounting. These include financial reporting, auditing, capital markets, corporate governance, sustainability and environmental reporting, accounting education, and public sector accountability.
To support this work, faculty have access to an extensive array of data resources and infrastructure. The university provides access to leading financial databases such as WRDS, Audit Analytics, Bloomberg, Morningstar, Sustainalytics, BoardEx, and more, giving researchers the tools they need to produce world-class studies.
The university fosters a balanced academic life, with manageable teaching loads designed to allow dedicated time for research. The primary requirements for the roles include a PhD in Accounting or a closely related field, a comprehensive research agenda targeting internationally recognised journals, and a demonstrated commitment to securing external research funding.
Life at Otago and in Dunedin
The University of Otago is one of New Zealand’s largest and most research-intensive universities, consistently ranked in the top 1% of universities worldwide by the QS World University ranking. Its Dunedin campus is renowned for its stunning architecture and park-like setting, often cited as one of the most beautiful in the world. Similar higher education developments can be seen internationally, such as where the Historic Melbourne pub facade anchors new student tower.
Dunedin itself offers a unique lifestyle, combining a vibrant and compact city with easy access to incredible natural landscapes. The city is known for its strong community feel, excellent schools, and a thriving cultural scene that belies its size. From exploring the Otago Peninsula's famous wildlife to enjoying the city’s many cafes and restaurants, there are countless activities for residents to enjoy.
The university is a central part of the city's identity, fostering a lively atmosphere and a strong connection between campus life and the wider community. Staff and students alike benefit from the excellent work-life balance the region affords, with world-class beaches, hiking trails, and ski fields all within a short drive. For those new to the city, there is an abundance of great cafes and entertainment venues to explore.
How to apply
The salary for the Lecturer/Senior Lecturer positions ranges from $97,377 to $137,444 per annum, depending on the skills and experience of the appointee. These two permanent, full-time positions offer a significant opportunity for academics looking to advance their careers at a world-class institution.
Applications for the positions close on Sunday, 10 May 2026. Candidates are requested to submit a CV, a cover letter, teaching evaluations from the last two years, and the contact details for three to four referees. More information can be found on the University of Otago's website.
