Dr Jean Bessala is a Lecturer in Finance at Salford Business School. His journey into academia was shaped by early exposure to teaching and research, alongside a long-standing interest in finance and industry. Having completed both his master’s and PhD at Salford, Jean’s work reflects the University’s strong focus on practical learning, student development and regional impact.
How did you get into academia as a career path?
I was first introduced to the world of academia through a family relative who worked in the field when I was young. He often spoke about the sense of fulfilment he gained from teaching, supporting students and producing quality research, and those conversations stayed with me.
For a long time, I dreamed of working in the banking industry and then, later in my career, moving into academia to teach and carry out research.
When I came to Salford to complete my PhD, I had the opportunity to work as an hourly paid academic/teaching assistant. It was during this experience that everything clicked. Seeing the impact I could have on students, hearing their feedback and realising that I could contribute meaningfully to their academic journey was incredibly motivating. That sense of purpose made it clear that academia wasn’t just something I admired from a distance; it was a career path I genuinely wanted to pursue.
Why did you choose to work at the University of Salford?
I chose to work at the University of Salford because it felt like a natural extension of my own academic journey. Having completed my master’s and PhD here, I’d already experienced the supportive environment, the strong sense of community and the University’s commitment to helping students succeed.
What really drew me in was Salford’s focus on practical, industry-connected learning and its dedication to creating opportunities for students from all backgrounds. It’s a place that genuinely values both teaching and personal development, and I wanted to be part of that. Being able to contribute to a University that shaped my own career, and now supports students in shaping theirs, made Salford the perfect fit for me.
What’s the best thing about being an academic at Salford?
For me, the most rewarding part of being an academic at Salford is the strong sense of community and shared purpose that runs throughout the University. There’s something truly special about working in an environment where colleagues are supportive, students are driven and everyone is committed to helping one another succeed.
I’m also inspired by the impact we’re able to make on students’ lives. Watching their confidence grow, seeing their progress and knowing that our guidance can help shape their future careers is incredibly fulfilling. Beyond the classroom, we also work closely with local communities and businesses, and it’s meaningful to be part of the region’s ongoing growth and development.
Can you tell us about any of your career highlights to-date?
One of my main career highlights has been supporting students throughout their studies and seeing many of them progress into excellent graduate roles.
As an internationalisation champion, I’ve also helped students secure international opportunities and experiences that are often genuinely life‑changing and transformative for their confidence and ambitions.
I’ve valued contributing to practical, industry‑focused teaching and curriculum development, as well as collaborating with colleagues, communities and partners. These experiences have strengthened my professional journey and reinforced the sense of purpose I find in being part of Salford’s academic community.
What’s your current research focused on?
My current research focuses on corporate takeovers and the opportunities they create for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to raise the funding they need to grow. I’m particularly interested in how these transactions can serve as strategic mechanisms for expansion and value creation in SMEs from less-developed regions.
I also explore the role of financial intermediaries and the added value they bring to SMEs, especially in terms of improving access to traditional and alternative finance solutions.
Do you have any published papers we can read?
I have several pieces of work currently in the pipeline that I’m revising, and I’m hopeful they will be published soon so I can share them with the wider academic community.
I’m naturally a perfectionist, and I’m committed to producing research that is not only rigorous but also genuinely impactful.
And finally, the all important question, where in Manchester or Salford is best to grab a coffee?
Honestly, the best place to get a coffee is at my house – my wife makes the best coffee you’ll ever taste! But if we’re talking about places outside home, I think most people would agree that Deli ‑Lama is a fantastic spot.