Description
The Director of Financial Aid and Scholarships is responsible for overseeing the administration of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs, ensuring compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and institutional policies. The director leads a team in providing financial aid services to students and plays a critical role in helping students access financial resources to support their education. The Director also leads the development, implementation, and management of the college's scholarship programs. This individual must demonstrate a strong commitment to student success while maintaining financial integrity.

Qualifications
Education:
- A bachelor’s degree in higher education, finance, business administration, or a related field is required.
- A master’s degree is preferred.

Experience:
- A minimum of 5 years of experience in financial aid administration, with at least 2 years in a leadership or managerial role.
- Demonstrated experience with federal financial aid programs and compliance.
- Experience managing a scholarship program and working with a diverse student population is preferred.

Skills:
- Strong leadership, organizational, and supervisory skills.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to clearly explain complex financial aid policies to students and staff.
- Proficiency in financial aid management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Working Conditions:
- This is a full-time, exempt position.
- Occasional evening and weekend work may be required.
- Some travel may be required for conferences, professional development, and other institutional activities.

Compensation:
- Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications.
- Benefits package includes health insurance, retirement plans, and other institutional benefits.

Major Responsibilities/Duties
Leadership and Supervision:
- Lead, manage, and supervise a team of financial aid professionals, including staff training, development, and performance evaluation.
- Provide leadership in the strategic planning, implementation, and evaluation of financial aid programs.
- Ensure the department operates in alignment with institutional goals and mission, focusing on enhancing student success and retention.

Financial Aid Administration:
- Oversee the administration of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs, including Pell Grants, student loans, work-study programs, and other forms of aid.
- Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and institutional regulations, policies, and procedures related to financial aid.
- Manage and maintain the student financial aid management system and ensure accurate processing of financial aid applications.
- Monitor and evaluate financial aid award packages to ensure they are complete and accurate, providing timely notifications to students regarding their financial aid status.

Scholarship Program Management:
- Develop, implement, and oversee the administration of institutional scholarships and grants.
- Ensure that scholarships align with the college's recruitment and retention goals, and coordinate scholarship opportunities for both new and continuing students.
- Establish policies and procedures for the awarding of scholarships and ensure that funds are allocated in accordance with institutional guidelines.
- Ensure scholarship funds are maximized to support both recruitment and retention initiatives.

Student and Community Support:
- Provide clear, timely, and accurate financial aid information to students and families, assisting them with financial aid processes and offering counseling when needed.
- Work closely with other departments such as Admissions, Student Services, and Registrar’s office to ensure a coordinated approach to student support.
- Maintain a strong customer service focus in all interactions with students, parents, and campus departments.
- Budgeting and Reporting: o Develop and manage the department’s budget, ensuring efficient use of financial resources.
- Prepare and submit regular reports on financial aid expenditures, trends, and outcomes to senior leadership.
- Provide reports on scholarship distribution and financial aid statistics to assist in institutional decision-making.

Policy Development and Compliance:
- Stay current on changes in federal, state, and institutional financial aid policies and legislation.
- Ensure that all financial aid processes adhere to compliance standards set by the U.S. Department of Education and other relevant governing bodies.
- Work with external auditors and regulatory agencies to ensure proper documentation and adherence to policies.