Associate Director of Financial Aid

Job Summary

The Associate Director of Student Financial Aid oversees and manages the financial aid offices processing operations, ensuring the efficient administration of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs. This position is responsible for coordinating the delivery of financial aid services, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations, and supporting students through the financial aid process. The role also involves supervising a team of operations staff, developing systems and strategies to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of financial aid processes,
providing training to staff, and collaborating with various campus departments. The Associate Director will report to the Director of Student Financial Services and Scholarships and will serve on committees to support the strategic mission of the university. 

Responsibilities

The duties include, but are not limited to:

FINANCIAL AID PROCESS OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT: Oversee the day-to-day processing operations of the financial aid office, including staff management, process improvement, and ensuring all financial aid procedures are in compliance with institutional policies and regulatory requirements. Supervise and train financial aid operations staff to ensure the accurate and timely delivery of financial aid services. Manage the financial aid disbursement process, ensuring timely and accurate processing and reconciliation of funds.

COMPLIANCE AND REGULATORY OVERSIGHT: Ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional financial aid regulations, including regular updates on changes in laws or policies that affect the financial aid process. Monitor and ensure adherence to financial aid reporting requirements and deadlines. Reporting responsibilities will include assisting with federal, state, and institutional reports such as Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), the Federal Student Aid Application Report (FISAP), Common Data Set, and Georgia Student Finance Commission reporting.

RECONCILIATION OF TITLE IV AND STATE AID PROGRAMS: Oversee the reconciliation of Title IV and state aid programs, ensuring accurate reporting and timely resolution of discrepancies. Ensure compliance with federal and state reconciliation requirements and assist in audits when necessary. 

SYSTEM AND PROCESS IMPROVEMENT: Develop and manage financial aid systems and processes to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of operations. Collaborate with IT and other departments to maintain and enhance financial aid systems, including integration with other campus systems such as Crystal, Slate, and Tableau.

STUDENT SUPPORT AND COUNSELING: Provide direct assistance to students and families regarding financial aid eligibility, process, and award packaging. Offer counseling and guidance to students on financial planning and available resources. Present at on-campus events such as orientation and campus preview days as needed.

STRATEGIC PLANNING AND REPORTING: Assist with the development and implementation of long-term strategic goals for the financial aid office. Prepare reports and analysis on financial aid trends and student aid outcomes to inform institutional planning. 

COMMITTEE PARTICIPATION AND UNIVERSITY SUPPORT: Serve on relevant committees, collaborating with campus stakeholders to enhance financial aid services and policies. Support the strategic missions of the financial aid department, student services division, and university by aligning financial aid goals with institutional priorities.

OTHER DUTIES: Perform all other job duties as assigned.