Executive Director of Financial Aid
Department: Financial Aid
Location: Grand Rapids, MI
The Executive Director of Financial Aid provides vision, leadership, and management of the Financial Aid Office and its staff, which awards approximately $35 million annually in federal, state, and institutional aid. This position ensures financial aid services are delivered in a timely and equitable manner, following regulatory compliance. As a member of the Student Success division, this position also is responsible for the exemplary stewardship of institutional, private, state, and federal financial aid funds aimed at helping to meet college strategic enrollment goals and student access, retention, and completion objectives. The Executive Director of Financial Aid reports to the Associate Dean of Student Success - Support and Retention (temporarily Interim Associate Provost of Instructional Support and Institutional Planning).
Requisition ID: 42
Department: Financial Aid
Group: Meet & Confer
Schedule: 40 Hours/52 Weeks
Compensation: AM5, $90,468
Benefits: https://www.grcc.edu/faculty-staff/human-resources/benefits-insurance/medical-plans/new-hire-benefit-enrollment
Reports to: Associate Dean of Student Success - Support and Retention (temporarily reporting to the Interim Associate Provost of Instructional Support and Institutional Planning)
Posting Opens: 08/14/2024
Posting Closes: Open Until Filled
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
• Lead and supervise the daily operation and functions of the Financial Aid Office.
• Hire, evaluate, identify training needs, and mentor Financial Aid staff members.
• Develop and implement annual department plans that align with the strategic goals of the college, as well as those of the Enrollment Management Team and Student Affairs.
• Serve as primary institutional contact for the Department of Education.
• Monitor sources from the federal and state governments regarding current and future changes in regulations related to GRCC's participation in financial aid programs. Communicate information to GRCC leadership, including how the changes will affect GRCC.
• Ensure institutional compliance with federal and state regulations pertaining to the administration of various financial aid programs, as well as compliance with related provisions that impact institutional aid eligibility. These include, but are not limited to, program and curriculum development, the Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Policy, Title IX, consumer information, etc.
• Prepare for and coordinate annual audits, as well as state and federal program reviews, as needed.
• Provide appropriate updates and reports regarding changes in compliance and policy matters to the Associate Dean, Dean, Provost, President, and other college leadership.
• Coordinate with Instructional Support and other faculty and staff members to offer financial aid eligibility guidance related to new programs.
• Ensure the college's Eligibility and Certification Approval Report (ECAR) and the Program Participation Agreement (PPA) are in good standing with regard to federal compliance. Oversee the PPA recertification process, as needed.
• Responsible for the annual completion and submission of the Fiscal Operations Report and Application to Participate (FISAP), as well as all other state and federal financial aid reporting requirements.
• Guide and oversee the development, documentation, and implementation of financial aid policies and procedures that adhere to federal and state compliance requirements and align with GRCC's Mission, Vision, Values, and Strategic Plan.
• Responsible for gathering, monitoring, assessing, and reporting financial aid information and data for
• various programs and services, and using this data and assessment for change management and improvement initiatives.
• Monitor campus-based aid (Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant and Federal Work- Study) allocations. In coordination with the Business and Finance and Student Employment Services Offices, reconcile Federal Work-Study awards and earnings on a monthly basis.
• Assess the effectiveness of technology support systems that are directly connected to financial aid processes and services. Lead the exploration and implementation of new technology solutions to streamline financial aid processes and improve service delivery.
• Assess vendor software and service quotations and proposals, as necessary. Contract and coordinate with consultants and implementation teams to monitor and improve financial aid compliance and service delivery.
• Serve as budget control officer (BCO) for the Financial Aid Office. Approve all department requests for budget expenditures and fund transfers, and monitor monthly budget reports. Identify office budget needs and submit annual and mid-year budget requests.
• Develop and implement operational student procedures, processes, and communications that enhance student navigation of the financial aid system and overall experience.
• Coordinate campus wide communications, updates, and training on financial aid requirements and changes impacting students or operational processes.
• Resolve student concerns and complaints, including follow-up and documentation for accountability reporting and process improvement opportunities.
• Participate in financial aid presentations and FAFSA workshops on campus and at area high schools and local agencies.
• As a member of the Student Success division, support established strategic enrollment and retention priorities and initiatives.
• Attend and actively participate in the Academic and Student Affairs Council, Default Management Team, Curriculum Approval Team, Drug and Alcohol Abuse and Prevention Program Team, and the Strategic Leadership Team. Provide input at the Academic Governing Council, when requested. Participate in strategic initiatives, policy review teams, and other committees, as needed.
• Regular attendance during normal scheduled hours is required. Being present is essential for serving customers and performing the essential functions of this position.
JOB SPECIFICATIONS
Education Credentials
•
Master's Degree in higher education, finance or related area required
Work Experience
• Five years of required experience:
• Administering state and federal Title IV student financial aid programs at a post-secondary level
• With state and federal compliance regulations and reporting requirements
• Supervising and leading Financial Aid offices
To apply and see full details, visit https://apptrkr.com/5921935
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