Director of Financial Aid

JOB SUMMARY

The Director of Financial Aid provides leadership and oversight for all financial aid operations, ensuring the accurate and compliant administration of federal, state, institutional, athletic, and donor-funded financial assistance programs. This role also leads institutional efforts related to cohort default rate management and supports required reporting including gainful employment and ACTS. The Director of Financial Aid serves as the University's chief financial aid administrator, responsible for the strategic leadership, compliance, and operational management of all student financial aid programs. This position ensures that institutional, federal, state, athletic, and donor-funded aid is administered accurately, equitably, and in full compliance with all applicable regulations. Reporting to the Vice President for Business Affairs (or appropriate senior leader), the Director plays a critical role in supporting enrollment, retention, and student success by developing and executing financial aid strategies that maximize access and affordability. The Director ensures the integrity of financial aid processes, maintains regulatory compliance, and provides leadership to financial aid staff while collaborating closely with enrollment, finance, and academic departments. The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented and highly knowledgeable professional with deep expertise in financial aid regulations, strong leadership ability, and a commitment to service and compliance.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Oversee all financial aid programs including Title IV, state, institutional, athletic, and donor funds. Ensure compliance with federal regulations including R2T4, SAP, and verification Develop and manage financial aid awarding strategies. Administer Federal Work-Study program. Oversee daily financial aid operations and system reporting (COD, NSLDS). Prepare for audits and ensure regulatory reporting compliance. Monitor cohort default rate and lead default management task force. Supervise financial aid staff and ensure strong customer service.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Extensive knowledge of federal Title IV regulations. Strong analytical and organizational skills. Effective leadership and communication abilities. High attention to detail and compliance. Ability to manage multiple priorities. Experience with financial aid systems including PowerFAIDS and ERP systems such as Jenzabar (preferred). Ability to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Bachelor's degree in relevant field (Master's preferred). 5-7 years of financial aid experience. Experience in higher education preferred. Supervisory experience preferred.