Director of Student Financial Services (29363)

OTTAWA UNIVERSITY

About The Position

Position oversees the activities and staff for the smooth and efficient student-facing functions of the Offices of Financial Aid and Student Accounts for all students. The Director will work closely with the operational staff of these offices to ensure consistency in student financial information, processes and policies, support, and escalation as needed. The Director will provide leadership, oversight, strategic planning, supervision, and management of the staff and operations of functional service in the areas of student accounts and financial aid. The position is a strategic thought partner and is responsible for leading and directing strategic priorities and process improvements, cultivating business methodologies and strategies, and improving the quality of the student's experience through improved process improvements and best practices for these teams. The Director will focus on understanding and improving student service levels, business processes, compliance risks, technology, and supporting organizational structures.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required.
Ten years of related professional experience in a leadership or managerial role of increasing responsibility within a higher education setting and Financial Aid and Student Accounting operations.
Demonstrated ability to work well under pressure and build positive relationships with colleagues across campuses.
Ability to operate strategically and develop short- and long-term goals and methods to achieve them.
Demonstrates adaptability by adjusting to new situations, solving problems effectively, and creating an environment where others can do the same.
Demonstrated leadership skills and collaborative demeanor.
Experience building and motivating productive and enthusiastic teams to fulfill the organization's mission.
Effective problem-solving and time management skills.
Strong technical skills and experience working with student information systems, payment systems, and/or leveraging AI and other tools to improve processes.
Excellent communication, presentation, interpersonal skills, and attention to detail.
Experience managing projects and leading project teams.
Demonstrated experience leading large, complex enterprise-wide projects and change initiatives.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree preferred.
Experience working or developing a one stop service model.

Responsibilities

Serve as sponsor or lead on projects and provide direction and vision to staff.
Implement high-level policy decisions regarding financial aid and student accounts in collaboration with the respective offices.
Ensure compliance with policies and maintain strong, engaged partnerships to assess processes.
Resolve escalated student/parent issues referred from offices and work to resolve escalated one-stop generalist issues.
Evaluate technical needs and enhancements across student services teams and collaborate with IT Department to incorporate improvements and modifications when appropriate.
Manage the communication flow for Student Services Center Teams in coordination with Unit operations teams, colleagues, and needs.
Lead presentations for internal and external partners as needed.
Stay current on financial aid and student accounting regulations, policies, procedures, and financial counseling through self-directed professional reading, participation in professional development courses, and networking with professional contacts at higher education regional, state, and national conferences.
Assure that financial policies, procedures, and internal controls are consistent with auditing standards and best practices, and financial records are accurate and reconciled in a timely manner. Includes the recommendation, development, and implementation of changes when needed.
Complete timely monthly general ledger and fiscal year-end closings and financial statement preparation per University policy.
Plan, supervise, and execute the annual financial statement and Single audits performed by independent auditors.
Prepare and present periodic and ad-hoc financial reports and analysis as required and requested by the various parts of the University community (e.g., Board of Trustees, University managers, Financial Services Staff, etc.).
Other duties as assigned
Manage staff consistent with University policies.
Encourage collaboration among the staff, provide regular evaluation and feedback, and facilitate developmental opportunities.
Model and encourage collaboration among university departments assuring effective communication and operations.
Understand the University’s policies and procedures, and exercise good judgment accordingly.
Assure that University and student information is managed in a confidential and ethical manner in accordance with the University’s Code of Conduct and Ethics.
Provide leadership through conduct, attitude, and professionalism.
Represent the University to students, external groups, faculty, and staff in a way that reflects positively on the University.
Be mindful and supportive of the overall Mission of Ottawa University.
Exercise Inclusivity in your daily actions accruing alignment within expectations of the University’s Mission Statement and Statement of Inclusion, Openness, and Community.