Professor of Practice in Mittelstand Strategy

Frankfurt School of Finance & Management is one of Europe’s leading business schools, accredited by AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS. To strengthen our team, we invite applications for the full-time position of

Professor of Practice in Mittelstand Strategy (m/f/d)

at the Commerzbank Mittelstandsinstitut at Frankfurt School

Frankfurt School and Commerzbank share the common goal of establishing a new, interdisciplinary hub dedicated to teaching and research on issues related to strategy, finance, management and governance in the Mittelstand. The Mittelstand forms the economic backbone not only of the German economy, but also of many other countries. Through dialogue and networking formats, the companies belonging to this group will be able to benefit directly from the Institute’s research activities, and to contribute to its work. The Institute will generate impact by supporting talent development, forming connections with Mittelstand companies, creating awareness of their specific needs, and increasing visibility of their strengths and economic potential.

As a member of the Management Department at Frankfurt School, the Professor of Practice in Mittelstand Strategy will assume a leadership role within the Institute and will have the opportunity to shape and further develop its strategic direction. The position has been generously funded by Commerzbank, the anchor sponsor of the new Institute, which will also be endowed with further positions to support its academic and practical mission.

Your profile

• Ph.D. or equivalent academic qualification in business administration, economics, or a related discipline;
• Senior professional and leadership experience in industry, consulting, entrepreneurship, or executive education, particularly in areas relevant to Mittelstand companies;
• Demonstrated excellence in practice-oriented teaching, with the ability to translate real-world strategic challenges into impactful learning experiences for students and executives;
• Established reputation as a thought leader and trusted advisor in the fields of strategy, management, innovation and entrepreneurship, or leadership and governance;
• Strong network and strong relationships with industry partners, corporate leaders, family businesses, entrepreneurs, and professional associations;
• Evidence of practice-based scholarly engagement, such as applied research, case writing, policy contributions, white papers, participation in conferences, and publications in academic and practitioner outlets;
• Experience in collaborating with universities, research institutions, and corporate partners;
• Outstanding communication and presentation skills in German and English;
• International professional and academic exposure.

Desirable qualifications

• Relevant industry experience;
• Experience in executive education in areas such as strategy, management, and innovation and entrepreneurship;
• Entrepreneurial mindset.

Your responsibilities

• Engaging in scholarly research;
• Maintaining strong industry and corporate connections;
• Providing thought leadership (e.g., to corporate partners and alumni) and maintaining media relations;
• Developing and delivering new courses on topics related to Mittelstand companies across the various Frankfurt School degree programmes, as well as in professional and executive education programmes;
• Teaching in FS programmes;
• Mentoring students and contributing to enhancing student experience;
• Helping to position Frankfurt School as a hub for Mittelstand companies and medium-sized companies;
• Performing services for the School (e.g., in the context of committees);
• Exhibiting sensitivity to and understanding of the diverse academic, social, economic, cultural, international, and ethnic backgrounds of FS students.

We explicitly welcome applications from international applicants. For this position, knowledge of the German language is a distinct advantage.

Review of applications will begin by 8 June 2026 and will continue until the position has been filled.

Frankfurt School values diversity among its faculty, is committed to building a culturally diverse intellectual community, and strongly encourages applications from women and underrepresented minorities. Review of applications will begin immediately after the application deadline and continue until the position is filled.

Please send your application, including cover letter, curriculum vitae, overview of relevant professional experience, teaching evaluations, complete publication list, and names of three references via Interfolio, following this link: https://apply.interfolio.com/185874.

Contact information: Prof. Ansgar Richter, PhD, Vice President Academic Affairs, Frankfurt School of Finance & Management, Email: a.richter@fs.de.

We emphasise that all people – regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion/belief, disability, age and sexual orientation – are equally welcome at Frankfurt School.

Find more information: www.frankfurt-school.de