Director of Financial Aid

About the role

The Director of Financial Aid reports to the Vice President for Finance and Management and provides strategic leadership and administrative oversight for all financial aid operations. The Director ensures compliance with federal, New York State, and institutional regulations while advancing equitable access to higher education. Serving as the university's Chief Title IV Financial Aid Administrator, the Director is responsible for the effective administration of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs. This position leads a team of financial aid professionals, oversees operational processes, develops and implements policies and procedures, and collaborates with colleagues across the University to deliver exceptional service to students and their families. The Director supports university enrollment and student success goals through effective financial aid strategy, administration, and stewardship.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and day-to-day management of the Financial Aid Office.
• Serve as the institution’s Chief Title IV Financial Aid Administrator.
• Hire, onboard, and train staff.
• Provide clear instructions, regular feedback, and coaching.
• Communicate performance expectations and goals, complete performance programs and evaluations in a timely manner.
• Nurture the development of staff by identifying opportunities for training and career development.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.
• Five years of progressively responsible experience in financial aid administration, including at least two years in a supervisory or leadership role.
• Demonstrated expertise in Title IV federal financial aid regulations and New York State financial aid programs, including TAP and the Excelsior Scholarship.
• Experience administering financial aid using Ellucian Banner or a comparable student information system.
• Demonstrated experience managing departmental budgets and financial resources.
• Demonstrated success supervising, mentoring, and developing professional staff.
• Commitment to fostering an inclusive, welcoming, and student-centered environment.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Higher Education Administration, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Experience working within the SUNY system or another public higher education institution.
• Experience with New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) systems and reporting.
• Certified Financial Aid Administrator (CFAA) credential or equivalent professional certification.
• Demonstrated experience leading technology implementations, business process improvements, or organizational change initiatives.

Salary Range: $110,000 + depending on experience (DOE)