KENT STATE UNIVERSITY RWANDA
Kigali, Rwanda Location
POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT
Lecturer / Assistant Professor — Fashion Merchandising
Location: Kigali, Rwanda | Contract: Full-Time, 9-Month (Non-Tenure Track) | Application Deadline: 11 July 2026
1. INSTITUTION OVERVIEW
Kent State University's School of Fashion is one of the largest and most distinguished fashion schools in the United States, enrolling approximately 1,400 students across Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Design and Bachelor of Science in Fashion Merchandising programs. The School is home to 34 full-time faculty in Kent, Ohio, and an additional 21 faculty across global campuses in New York City, Florence (Italy), and Kigali, Rwanda.
Our mission is to transform lives through creative fashion education in pursuit of a sustainable world. Our vision is to empower an ecosystem of socially responsible and inventive fashion thinkers.
The Kigali location — Kent State University Rwanda — offers the Bachelor of Arts Degree in Fashion Design and the Bachelor of Science Degree in Fashion Merchandising. The two programs are tailored to develop human capital and support the growth of Africa's apparel, product development, and manufacturing sector.
2. POSITION SUMMARY
Kent State University invites applications for a full-time, 9-month, non-tenure track position at the rank of Lecturer or Assistant Professor in Fashion Merchandising, based on the Kigali, Rwanda campus. The successful candidate will help build a data-driven, industry-connected academic program that prepares students for careers across retail, supply chain, and fashion business in Africa and beyond.
Note: All positions are subject to the availability of funds. Terminal degree is required for appointment at the rank of Assistant Professor.
3. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Teach courses in fashion merchandising and related areas, including fashion business, brand management, global supply chain, retail technology, product development, planning, buying, allocation, and sustainable thinking.
- Integrate digital and technology-driven tools into instruction, including AI applications, ERP/PLM systems, predictive analytics, and data analysis platforms.
- Stay current with industry trends in fashion retail, e-commerce, global sourcing, and emerging markets, with a focus on Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Participate actively in curriculum review, course development, and academic program enhancement.
- Advise and mentor students on career pathways, competitions, internship opportunities, and professional development.
- Collaborate with School of Fashion faculty across global campuses on joint initiatives and curriculum alignment.
4. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- A Master's degree in Fashion, Apparel and Textiles, Fashion Merchandising, Business, or a closely related field; or an equivalent combination of a Bachelor's degree and substantial professional experience. The degree must be conferred by the position start date.
- Demonstrated teaching experience, preferably at the university or postsecondary level, with expertise in at least three of the following areas:
◦ Fashion retail technologies, including AI, ERP, and PLM systems
◦ Research methods and predictive analytics
◦ Planning, buying, and allocation of merchandise
◦ Sustainable fashion and supply chain management
◦ Fashion fabrics and textile knowledge
◦ Global merchandise and retail management
- Proficiency in two or more of the following industry-standard digital tools:
◦ Microsoft Excel (advanced-level data analysis)
◦ AI tools and data analytics platforms
◦ Adobe Creative Suite
◦ ERP or PLM software (e.g., SAP, Lectra, Centric PLM)
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
5. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Terminal degree (PhD or equivalent) in Fashion Merchandising, Retail Management, or a closely related discipline.
- Five (5) or more years of professional industry experience in fashion merchandising, retail buying, supply chain, or brand management.
- Practical experience with AI-driven merchandising tools, predictive analytics platforms, or data visualization software.
- Experience with Learning Management Systems (e.g., Canvas) and pedagogical technology tools.
- Prior experience working or teaching in Sub-Saharan Africa or other emerging fashion markets.
- Industry connections relevant to East African textile, retail, and apparel trade.
6. REQUIRED APPLICATION DOCUMENTS
- Cover letter detailing your interest in the position and relevant experience
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) — current and comprehensive
- Names and contact information of three (3) professional references
- Copy of highest academic degree or equivalent professional credentials
7. APPLICATION DEADLINE
11 July 2026 — Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Early submission is encouraged.
8. INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS
Kent State University Rwanda welcomes applications from qualified international and regional candidates. The university provides guidance and administrative support for work permit and visa processes for successful international appointees in accordance with applicable Rwandan immigration regulations.
9. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT
Kent State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a community that is culturally and intellectually diverse and to attracting and retaining a diverse staff. We strive to create and maintain working and learning environments that respect differences, and are inclusive, welcoming, respectful and kind.
How to Apply
Interested candidate should submit their application no later than 11 July 2026. Please click on the “Apply” button to complete your application