Job Title: Director of Financial Aid

Job Description

The Director of Financial Aid will lead and implement a comprehensive financial aid strategy that aligns with institutional goals, focusing on improving student access, retention, and graduation. This role involves providing leadership and mentorship to a team of financial aid professionals, collaborating with key campus stakeholders, overseeing the administration of various financial aid programs, and ensuring compliance with regulations. The Director will also enhance student experiences through personalized financial aid counseling and support, manage financial aid appeals, and develop communication strategies to inform students and families about financial aid opportunities.

ResponsibilitiesDevelop and implement a comprehensive financial aid strategy that aligns with institutional goals, including improving student access, retention, and graduation.Lead the Financial Aid Office to create a culture of innovation, collaboration, and exceptional service to students, families, and campus partners.Provide leadership and mentorship to a team of financial aid professionals, ensuring staff are motivated, well-trained, and prepared to meet institutional and regulatory standards.Collaborate with key campus stakeholders, including Admissions, Student Accounts, and Registrar, to create holistic financial aid packages and streamline services.Oversee the administration of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs, including Title IV funds, state grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs.Ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations by managing financial aid policies and procedures, ensuring adherence to current regulations, including Title IV requirements, FERPA, and Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards.Monitor and reconcile financial aid fund management, ensuring proper allocation and disbursement of all federal, state, and institutional funds.Coordinate and oversee the preparation of all required financial aid reports, including federal, state, and institutional audits, and participate in program reviews as necessary.Lead efforts to enhance the student experience by providing personalized financial aid counseling and support throughout the aid process, from application to loan repayment.Manage financial aid appeals and oversee professional judgment decisions, ensuring equitable treatment for students facing exceptional circumstances.Develop communication strategies to inform students and families about financial aid opportunities, policies, and deadlines, fostering transparency and understanding.Implement outreach and education programs, including workshops, presentations, and one-on-one counseling to guide prospective and current students and their families through the financial aid process.Oversee budgeting and financial reporting for all financial aid programs, ensuring funds are managed in a cost-effective and compliant manner.Monitor financial aid trends, analyzing data on disbursements, student aid usage, and demographics to inform policy changes, financial aid packaging strategies, and other initiatives.Identify and address financial barriers that may impede student enrollment, persistence, or success, recommending solutions and innovative financial aid offerings.Build relationships with state and federal agencies, scholarship providers, and other external organizations to advocate for students and develop additional resources.Represent the institution at regional and national financial aid conferences, participating in professional development activities and networking to stay current on changes in financial aid policies and practices.Essential SkillsMinimum of 5 years supervisory experience in higher education.At least 5-7 years of experience in financial aid administration, including at least 3 years in a leadership role.Expert knowledge of Title IV regulations and other federal, state, and institutional financial aid policies.Proven success in leading teams, managing complex financial aid operations, and collaborating across departments.Experience in budget management and financial reporting related to financial aid.Familiarity with financial aid software and student information systems (e.g., Banner, PowerFAIDS, COD, NSLDS, Scholarnet).Additional Skills & QualificationsMaster’s degree in Higher Education Administration, Finance, Business, or a related field preferred; Bachelor’s degree required.Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to motivate, guide, and mentor a team of financial aid professionals.Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to present complex financial information in a clear, accessible manner to students, families, and staff.Ability to develop strategic initiatives, lead change, and improve organizational efficiency.Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy, compliance, and problem resolution in high-stakes situations.Exceptional analytical and critical thinking skills, including the ability to use data to inform decision-making.Commitment to student success, with a focus on increasing access to higher education for a diverse student population.Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.Understanding of financial aid technologies and systems, and the ability to innovate and implement process improvements.Work Environment

The position is fully onsite, leading a team of approximately 10-13 members..

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $120000.00 - $160000.00/yr.

Medical, Dental, Vision
Health Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
Basic Life Insurance, Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D), Long Term Disability (LTD)
Retirement – 403(b) (100% vested on first day)
Paid Holidays (eligible employees) and a current policy for a paid two-week winter break (subject to change)
Sick/Vacation Time
Training/Professional Development
Service Awards
Tuition Reimbursement, Tuition Remission
Employee Assistance Program (emotional well-being, parenting & childcare, education, and legal assistance)
Vendor Discounts (entertainment, food, goods, services)
Ride Share
Wellness Program (Exercise Incentives, Reimbursements for Health Club/Gyms & Weight Watchers Memberships)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Pomona,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Feb 14, 2025.

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\n \n About Aston Carter:\n

Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® double diamond winner for both client and talent service.

\n Diversity, Equity & Inclusion\n

At Aston Carter, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I are embedded into our culture through:

\n Hiring diverse talent\n Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection\n Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes\n Ensuring growth opportunities for our people\n

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

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If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com for other accommodation options.

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