Executive Director of Financial Aid and Scholarships

JOB SUMMARY

The Executive Director of Financial Aid and Scholarships is responsible for the strategic leadership, administration, and oversight of the college’s financial aid and scholarship programs. This position ensures compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations while supporting the institution’s enrollment and retention goals. The Executive Director will serve as the Financial Aid office’s primary internal and external liaison, design and implement robust training for staff, and develop policies and strategies that enhance student access, affordability, and success while maintaining fiscal responsibility. 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Strategic Leadership and Administration

• Develop and implement a comprehensive financial aid strategy aligned with the college’s mission and enrollment goals. 

• Provide vision and leadership to the financial aid team, ensuring high standards of service and efficiency. 

• Manage institutional, federal, and state financial aid programs, ensuring compliance with all regulations. 

• Oversee the development and maintenance of policies, procedures, and systems to optimize aid distribution and student support. 
• Serve as a key leader within the enrollment management division to inform strategic enrollment goals and institutional objectives.

Financial Aid Operations and Compliance

• Administer and monitor financial aid programs, including grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study. 

• Ensure compliance with all Title IV, state, and institutional regulations. 

• Prepare and submit all required federal and state financial aid reports. 

• Conduct regular audits and assessments to improve financial aid processes and maintain compliance. 

Enrollment and Student Success Collaboration

• Partner with Enrollment Management, Admissions, and Student Success teams to develop financial aid strategies that support recruitment and retention. 

• Develop data-driven financial aid models to support institutional enrollment objectives. 

• Provide financial literacy programming to educate students and families about aid options, budgeting, and loan management. 
• Collaborate with Athletics to adhere to institutional and NAIA financial aid policies.

Scholarship Program Management

• Oversee the administration of institutional and endowed scholarships. 

• Collaborate with Advancement and Alumni Relations to support donor stewardship efforts related to scholarships. 

• Ensure equitable and strategic distribution of scholarship funds to maximize student support. 
• Develop financial aid and net revenue strategies in partnership with the VP of Enrollment Management.

Team Leadership and Development

• Supervise and mentor financial aid staff, fostering a culture of collaboration, professionalism, and continuous improvement. 
• Provide professional development opportunities and training for staff to stay informed of best practices and regulatory changes. 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO PERFORM WORK: 

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred in higher education administration, business or closely related field.

• Minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in financial aid administration, preferably in a liberal arts college setting.