Senior Director for Student Financial Services

Job no: 494753Closes: 12/2/2024 5:55:00 AMWork Type: Staff Full-TimeLocations: Lafayette, LACategories: Bursar's Office, Financial Aid

College: SLCC

Department: Academic & Student Affairs

Sub department: Student Accounts/Financial Aid

Type of Appointment: Unclassified - Administrative/Staff

Salary: $68,641.00 - $109,577.00

Duties and Responsibilities: 

Work Habits
Oversee the administration of financial aid programs, including federal, state, and institutional aid. 
Manage the financial aid awarding process, including the evaluation of applications, packaging of aid, and maintenance of accurate records. 
Oversee billing, collections, and payment processing for student accounts, ensuring accurate and timely invoicing and account reconciliation. 
Develop and implement strategies for effective student account management, including payment plans and collection efforts.
Develop and manage budgets for financial aid and student accounts. 
Prepare financial reports and analyses for institutional leadership, providing insights into trends and areas for improvement. 

Ensure exceptional customer service for students and families regarding financial aid and billing. 
Develop resources and workshops to educate students about financial aid processes, budgeting, and financial literacy.

Behavioral Standards 
Develop, implement, and review policies and procedures related to financial aid and student account management, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations. 
Stay updated on changes in laws and regulations affecting financial aid and student accounts, adapting policies as necessary.

Utilize data analytics to assess the effectiveness of financial aid programs and student account operations, making data-driven recommendations for improvement. 
Conduct regular assessments to identify trends in student borrowing, debt levels, and repayment rates. 
Serve as a liaison with external organizations and agencies related to financial aid and student accounts. 
Stay informed about best practices in financial aid and student account management through continuous education and professional development.

Institutional Support 
Collaborate with institutional leadership to develop and implement strategic initiatives that enhance financial accessibility and student support. 
Align financial services goals with the overall mission and objectives of the institution. 
Facilitate communication and collaboration among departments to address financial issues. 
Participate in the institutional budget process, advocating for resources needed to support financial aid and student account operations. 
Monitor financial aid and student accounts budgets to ensure fiscal responsibility and effective resource allocation. 

Implement financial literacy programs and workshops for students to promote understanding of financial aid processes, budgeting, and responsible borrowing. 
Develop resources, including online materials, to educate students and families about financial options and responsibilities.

Team Relations 
Collaborate with academic departments, student affairs, and other offices to support students’ financial needs and enhance their overall experience. 
Address complex financial situations and concerns raised by students and families, providing solutions and support as needed.
Develop and regularly review institutional policies related to financial aid and student accounts to ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations. 
Provide guidance on regulatory changes and their implications for financial services.

Leadership/Management 
Provide strategic leadership for the financial aid and student accounts departments, ensuring alignment with the institution’s goals and mission. 
Supervise and mentor staff in both areas, fostering a collaborative and effective work environment. 
Support the professional growth of staff within the financial services area by providing training opportunities and encouraging participation in relevant conferences. 
Foster a culture of continuous improvement and learning within the financial services team.

Minimum Qualifications: 

Three (3) years of experience in financial aid or student accounts or similar in higher education with a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution OR
Seven (7) years of experience in financial aid or student accounts or similar in higher education

Preferred Education: 

Master's degree

Benefits: As a member of the Louisiana Community and Technical College System, SoLAcc has an attractive benefits package with a wide variety of benefit options. Benefits offered include retirement, multiple medical insurance options, supplemental insurances (dental, term life, disability, accident, vision, etc.), Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan (saves tax dollars on some child care and medical expenses), holidays (14 per year, typically includes longer break at Christmas), generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits and Employee Assistance Program. Specific benefits depend on job category, percent effort and length of employment.

Passing pre-employment criminal background screen is required as a condition of employment. SoLAcc is an equal opportunity/equal access employer. SoLAcc is a State As a Model Employer (SAME) agency that supports improved employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.