Dr. Cynthia Chakahwata is an accomplished academic and finance expert with over 15 years of experience teaching undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Finance, Investment and Banking. She is the Course Leader for Undergraduate Banking and Finance Courses at Sheffield Hallam University and a Senior Lecturer in Finance, Investment, and Banking. Additionally, she is the Professional Body Lead for Banking and Finance Courses at Sheffield Business School. She holds a PhD in Finance, a Master's in Finance and Investment (Distinction), and a Master’s in Banking and Finance. Additionally, she is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA), reflecting her commitment to excellence in teaching and learning and professional development. An award-winning Academic recognised for outstanding results, dedication, and passion for teaching, having received the SHU Inspirational Lecturer Award  in 2019 and a nomination for the SHU Inspirational Award in 2022.

Before joining academia, Dr. Chakahwata gained valuable industry experience in commercial banking, holding multiple roles and developing deep insights into the practical operations of the financial sector. She combines this industry expertise with academic excellence to bring real-world perspectives into the classroom, preparing students for success in the fast-evolving finance industry. Her unique blend of scholarly knowledge and hands-on banking experience enables her to mentor and develop the next generation of finance leaders ready to thrive in a global financial landscape.

Dr. Cynthia Chakahwata has over 11 years of experience as a Course Leader for Banking and Finance courses, demonstrating sustained academic leadership and effective programme management. In this capacity, she provides strategic oversight of curriculum design, quality assurance, assessment, student experience, and staff coordination, ensuring alignment with institutional regulations and professional body requirements.

She successfully managed the BA (Hons) International Banking and Finance for nine years, leading curriculum development, assessment review, and continuous enhancement of the student learning experience. Under her leadership, the programme achieved and maintained professional body accreditation, strengthening graduate employability and industry relevance.

In 2023, Dr. Chakahwata was appointed the Course Leader for Undergraduate Banking and Finance courses, including BSc (Hons) Financial Trading and Investment Management, BSc (Hons) Banking and Finance, and BSc (Hons) Economics and Finance. She has facilitated the successful accreditation of these programmes with CISI, CFA, and ACT (Treasury), enhancing professional recognition, curriculum relevance, and student career pathways.