Director of Financial Aid

South College•Knoxville, TN

About The Position

The Director of Financial Aid provides strategic leadership and administrative oversight for the institution’s financial aid programs. The role ensures regulatory compliance with federal, state, and institutional policies, oversees operational effectiveness, and supports institutional goals related to enrollment, retention, and student success. The Director oversees aid awarding, reconciliation, reporting, and audit preparedness while guiding the financial aid team in delivering student-centered service. The role also serves as a liaison between departments and external agencies and contributes to policy development, regulatory interpretation, and institutional planning for financial aid operations.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required.
At least 5–7 years of progressive experience in financial aid administration, including supervisory and operational leadership roles.
Demonstrated expertise in federal and state financial aid regulations, compliance, and Title IV administration.
Experience with strategic planning, process improvement, and regulatory audits.
Strong leadership, team-building, and performance management skills.
Advanced communication, organizational, and analytical capabilities.
Ability to interpret and apply complex regulations in a dynamic environment.
Proficiency with financial aid platforms such as COD and NSLDS, student information systems, and reporting tools.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Higher Education, Public Administration, Business, or a related field.

Responsibilities

Provide strategic direction and operational oversight for all functions of the financial aid office, aligned with the institutional mission, enrollment goals, and compliance obligations.
Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of policies and procedures for federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs.
Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and accreditation standards, including Title IV requirements, through policy enforcement and staff training.
Supervise and mentor Associate Directors, Assistant Directors, and other financial aid team members.
Oversee reconciliation of aid programs and timely submission of federal and state reporting, including preparation for internal and external audits.
Monitor regulatory and legislative updates, implement necessary procedural changes, and communicate their impact to stakeholders.
Collaborate with executive and campus leadership on financial aid packaging, student account activities, and retention initiatives.
Represent the institution at federal, state, and professional association events, and serve as a liaison to auditors, regulatory agencies, and partner institutions.
Perform complex cognitive and data-driven tasks requiring independent judgment, regulatory interpretation, and time-sensitive decision-making.
Communicate effectively with internal and external audiences, including in high-pressure or high-stakes situations.
Respond proactively to institutional priorities and operational challenges in a fast-paced and evolving higher education environment.