Director of Student Financial Services

University of Arkansas System•Pine Bluff, AR

About The Position

The Director of Student Financial Services at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) is a critical member of the Division of Enrollment Management and Student Success senior staff. The Director is responsible for the overall operation and services of the Financial Aid department. The Director hires, develops, and leads professional staff in the Office of Financial Aid. Under the Leadership of the VC for Enrollment Management and Student Success, the Director works in collaboration with Business of Finance (particularly student accounts), Recruitment, Admissions, Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, Marketing and Communications, Athletics, Institutional Advancement, and other university leaders, to develop and execute a comprehensive, data-informed, multi-year student financial aid plan that is relevant and responsive to the vision and mission of the university. The Director ensures that the proper counsel and advice are provided to students regarding financial aid benefits, and conducts financial aid workshops for faculty, staff, parents, and students attending the university, high schools, and the community. The Director provides leadership for developing and implementing strategies to reduce the college's student loan default rate, including education programs and activities for students, faculty, and staff. The fundamental key performance indicators for the position are hiring, supervising, and managing a high-performing team and meeting the financial needs of traditional, non-traditional transfer, and international students.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree, preferably in Business Administration, Education, or related fields.
A strong understanding of accessing and navigating all federal financial aid websites (NSLDS, COD, etc.).
Demonstrated higher education recruitment record that shows progressive thought and strategies.
5 years’ progressively responsible administrative experience in financial aid administration.
3 – 5 years of supervisory and managerial experience.
Experience with financial aid management systems and technology.
Knowledge of, or the ability to learn, university policies and procedures.
Knowledge of, or the ability to learn, federal, state, and local laws, statutes, regulations, codes, and standards related to student financial services.
Knowledge of financial aid-related software and websites related to processing.
Skill in using computer applications, including spreadsheets, databases, CRM, and word processing software and programs.
Ability to research, interpret, and summarize relevant federal and state laws.
Ability to analyze complex information and develop plans to address identified issues.
Ability to work effectively within a complex organizational structure.
Ability to establish and maintain good rapport with university faculty, staff, students, and the public.
Ability to exercise sound judgment in making decisions.
Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form.
Ability to explain policies and procedures to students, parents, staff, and the public.
Ability to maintain effective interpersonal relationships.
Ability to train and supervise others.
Ability to work with and maintain confidential information.
Ability to set priorities and complete assignments on time.
Ability to learn office and university-specific software.
Ability to work evenings, nights, and weekends as necessary.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree in the areas of Business Administration, Education, or a related field
5 years of progressively responsible administrative experience in financial aid administration.

Responsibilities

Leads and mentors the department, fostering a collaborative, student-centered environment.
Develops and implements comprehensive financial aid strategies that align with the university's enrollment goals and student success initiatives.
Partners with campus stakeholders to enhance financial aid processes and support student retention.
Drives innovation in service delivery and technological solutions to improve student experience.
Shapes and implements financial aid policies that promote student success while ensuring institutional compliance.
Analyzes and interprets federal and state regulations to guide policy decisions.
Oversee the strategic management of financial aid resources, ensuring accurate and timely disbursement.
Maintains robust internal controls and risk management practices.
Advocates for initiatives that expand financial access and support student persistence.
Ensures exceptional service delivery to students, families, and campus partners.
Create a welcoming and supportive environment and processes that enhance customer service.
Ensures data-informed decision-making through regular analysis and assessment.
Represents the university on financial aid matters at the local, system, state, regional, and national levels.