Employment Status: Administrative
Description of Key Responsibility:
Strategic Leadership & Planning
- Serve as a senior member of the enrollment management team.
- Collaborate with the Vice President for Enrollment Management and Marketing to develop and execute a strategic vision for financial aid that aligns with institutional goals related to enrollment, net revenue, and student success.
- Provide leadership in forecasting, pricing, and policy decisions impacting financial aid and tuition revenue.
Policy Development & Compliance
- Ensure institutional compliance with all federal, state, and NCAA Division III regulations related to financial aid.
- Interpret and implement regulatory changes; inform stakeholders across the College.
- Direct internal audits, compliance reviews, and account reconciliations.
Financial Aid Administration
- Design and oversee effective and equitable strategies for awarding financial aid and scholarships.
- Maintain comprehensive knowledge of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs.
- Serve as the primary contact for all federal and state financial aid reporting.
Budgeting & Resource Allocation
- Collaborate on institutional pricing strategy and budget forecasting.
- Manage aid expenditures and ensure the efficient and responsible use of institutional resources.
- Represent financial aid in budget committee discussions and long-range planning.
Technology & Process Improvement
- Lead efforts to optimize financial aid operations through the use of technology.
- Partner with IT and the Senior Financial Aid Counselor to manage system updates, automation, and reporting functions.
Communication & Customer Service
- Ensure timely and clear communication to students and families through individual counseling, group presentations, digital platforms, and printed materials.
- Collaborate with Enrollment Marketing to maintain accurate and effective financial aid communications, including the website.
Outreach & Engagement
- Conduct presentations for prospective and current students, families, and community partners on financial aid topics.
- Represent the College at external events, fostering relationships with high schools and community organizations.
Staff Leadership & Development
- Supervise and mentor financial aid staff, fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and service-oriented team culture.
- Establish clear expectations, provide professional development opportunities, and conduct regular performance evaluations.
Data Management & Reporting
- Prepare institutional, state, and federal reports.
- Analyze trends and outcomes related to aid distribution, student debt, retention, and enrollment impact.
- Support strategic decision-making through data-informed insights.
Confidentiality & Ethics
- Maintain the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality when working with student records and financial information.
Community & Belonging
- Promote an inclusive and welcoming environment for all students and staff.
- Engage in professional development and support initiatives that advance diversity, equity, and access.
Other Duties
- Serve on institutional committees and task forces as assigned.
- Perform additional responsibilities in support of the College's mission and enrollment goals.
Education/Training:
A bachelor's degree is required. Master's degree is strongly preferred.
Experience:
At least seven years of experience in a financial aid setting, or a minimum of five years in higher education financial aid setting.
Licenses or Certifications:
A valid driver's license and acceptable driving record is required.
Position Summary:
The Director of Financial Aid provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for all aspects of the financial aid operation at North Central College. This includes oversight of strategic planning, goal setting, staff recruitment and development, financial aid awarding, compliance, technology integration, communications, and collaboration on institutional pricing and budget decisions. The Director ensures adherence to all federal, state, and institutional regulations governing student financial aid and serves as the College's lead in audits, compliance reviews, account reconciliations, and federal reporting. The position is responsible for the equitable and compliant distribution of financial aid resources to support student access, enrollment, and success.
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