Communication and Leadership Instructor and Coach – Master of Science in Computational Finance

Overview

Carnegie Mellon University’s Master of Science in Computational Finance (MSCF) program is seeking an experienced communication and leadership professional to teach and coach future finance professionals. This role is ideal for candidates with a background in corporate communication, HR, learning and development, executive coaching, or finance industry training who want to bring real-world expertise into an academic environment.

The position focuses on teaching graduate-level communication courses designed to prepare students for high-stakes roles in quantitative finance. The role also involves individualized coaching that helps students strengthen professional presence and leadership ability. Candidates from industry with a practical, hands-on approach to communication and talent development are strongly encouraged to apply.

• Teach communication courses that prepare students to communicate effectively in fast-paced, high-pressure finance environments.
• Train students in writing, presentations, messaging, interviewing, networking, leadership communication, and executive presence.
• Bring real industry examples into the classroom and help students adapt communication to actual business scenarios.
• Incorporate emotional intelligence, difficult conversations, team dynamics, negotiation awareness, and situational leadership.
• Teach students to use AI and communication technology to improve clarity, structure, and delivery.
• Lead practical exercises including role-plays, mock interviews, networking simulations, team challenges, and real-world communication drills.
• Offer structured feedback on written work, live presentations, and recorded video assessments.
• Required travel to second location multiple times (as needed) per semester for in-person instruction and engagement.
• Collaborates with Career Services on student development by delivering workshops, presentations, and other student-focused sessions.
• Prepare and develop course materials that integrate with other MSCF courses where appropriate. Review course evaluations and make changes as appropriate.
• Counsel with MSCF leadership (Director and Executive Director) to ensure program excellence and alignment with program strategy.
• Plan, prepare, and deliver lesson plans and instructional materials that facilitate active learning.
• Provide one-on-one coaching on communication, leadership behaviors, interpersonal dynamics, and professional presence. Help students prepare for interviews, summer internships, employer networking events, and client-facing interactions. Serve as a communication and leadership resource for MSCF students, drawing from industry experience and best practices.
• Other such duties as assigned.

• Strong facilitation skills and comfort leading interactive, high-participation sessions.
• Ability to coach individuals and teams using practical frameworks shaped by industry experience.
• Experience working with a broad range of individuals, including diverse, international, and technical professionals.

• Master’s degree required; master’s degree in communication, organizational psychology, business, or related field preferred
• A minimum of 3-5 years of demonstrated experience in communication training, leadership development, executive coaching, or corporate instruction required; 3 or more years in a finance-related firm or financial services environment, ideally in communication, HR, learning and development, leadership development, or client-facing roles preferred
• A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

• Experience teaching communication or coaching high-performing talent.
• Formal coaching credentials such as Associate Certified Coach (ACC), Professional Certified Coach (PCC), or Master Certified Coach (MCC).
• Familiarity with AI-supported communication tools.

• Sponsorship
  :
  Applicants for this position must be currently legally authorized to work for CMU in the United States. CMU will not sponsor or take over the sponsorship of an employment visa for this opportunity. Carnegie Mellon is not a qualifying…