Posting DetailsPosting Information Posting Number S280P Working Title Director of Financial Aid FLSA Exempt Pay Grade Non-Classified Advertised SalaryPosition Status Full Time Appointment Length 12 Months Department Financial Aid Job Summary/Basic Function We seek a highly skilled and experienced Director of Financial Aid to oversee all aspects of our financial aid program. The Director will lead a team responsible for administering financial aid services to students, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations, and implementing strategies to enhance accessibility and affordability for our student body.Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree required;
- Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in financial aid administration, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or managerial role.
- Comprehensive knowledge of federal and state financial aid programs, regulations, and compliance requirements.
- Strong leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills.
- Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.
- Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master's degree preferred in higher education administration, finance, or related field.
- Experience with financial aid management systems Banner Financial Aid.
- Certification in financial aid administration (e.g., NASFAA credentials).
- Experience working in a multicultural environment with diverse student populations.
Posting Date 10/28/2024 Close DateSpecial Instructions Summary Appointment to this position will be contingent upon a satisfactory background check.We believe in work-life balance and keeping time for things we love outside our work. Shepherd University offers generous employee benefits, including:o 13 paid holidayso 24 days annual leave (vacation) per yearo 18 sick days per year and the flexibility to use that time to care for immediate family memberso Wide range of health insurance and other benefitso 401(a) retirement savings with 6% contribution match; eligibility to continue health insurance post-retirement, and other retiree perkso Tuition waivers for employees and their dependentsJob Duties Description of Job Duties Leadership and Strategy:• Develop and implement strategic plans for the financial aid department that are aligned with the institution's goals and objectives.• Lead, mentor, and motivate a team of financial aid professionals to achieve departmental and institutional targets.Financial Aid Administration:• Oversee the processing, disbursement, and reconciliation of financial aid funds in accordance with federal, state, and institutional policies.• Ensure accurate and timely delivery of financial aid packages to eligible students, including grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs.Compliance and Regulations:• Stay abreast of federal and state financial aid regulations and ensure institutional compliance.• Prepare and submit required reports and audits to regulatory agencies, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.Student Support and Counseling:• Provide guidance and support to students and families regarding financial aid options, eligibility criteria, and application processes.• Foster a student-centered approach to financial aid services, promoting accessibility and equity.Financial Aid Policies and Procedures:• Develop and update financial aid policies and procedures to improve efficiency, transparency, and effectiveness.• Implement best practices in financial aid administration to enhance service delivery and student satisfaction.Collaboration and Communication:• Collaborate with other departments (Admissions, Registrar, Finance, Student Services) to streamline processes and improve the overall student experience.• Communicate financial aid policies, procedures, and updates to students, staff, and faculty through various channels.System Administration and Integration:• Serve as the primary administrator for the institution's FAMS, overseeing system configuration, updates, and user support.• Collaborate with IT department to integrate financial aid systems with other institutional platforms (e.g., student information systems, CRM systems).IT Strategy and Implementation:• Develop and execute IT strategies aligned with financial aid goals to improve operational efficiency and student experience.• Evaluate, implement, and manage financial aid management systems (FAMS) and other IT solutions to streamline processes and ensure compliance with federal and state regulations.Data Management and Reporting:• Oversee data integrity and reporting for financial aid programs, ensuring accuracy and compliance with regulatory requirements.• Utilize data analytics to inform decision-making, assess financial aid trends, and optimize resource allocation.Other duties as assigned.