Office of Human Resource Management

The Director of Financial Aid provides strategic leadership, management, and oversight for all aspects of the University's financial aid programs and operations. The Director is responsible for ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations governing student financial assistance while advancing South Carolina State University's enrollment, retention, and student success goals. The position oversees the administration of federal, state, institutional, and private financial aid programs and serves as the University's primary authority on financial aid policy and compliance.

The Director collaborates closely with Enrollment Management, Student Accounts, Admissions, Academic Affairs, Athletics, Information Technology, and other campus stakeholders to deliver exceptional service to students and families while maintaining the highest standards of regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership and Strategic Planning

• Provide visionary leadership and strategic direction for the Office of Financial Aid.
• Develop and implement financial aid strategies that support the University's enrollment and retention objectives.
• Establish departmental goals, performance metrics, and service standards.
• Lead initiatives to improve financial aid processes, customer service, and operational effectiveness.
• Participate in University committees and strategic planning efforts related to enrollment management and student success.

Financial Aid Administration

• Direct the administration of federal, state, institutional, and private financial aid programs.
• Ensure timely and accurate awarding, disbursement, reconciliation, and reporting of financial aid funds.
• Oversee packaging policies and procedures designed to maximize student access and affordability.
• Monitor financial aid expenditures and fund utilization to ensure effective stewardship of resources.
• Manage institutional scholarships and grant programs in collaboration with University leadership.

Compliance and Regulatory Oversight

• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and institutional regulations, including:
• Title IV Federal Student Aid Programs
• U.S. Department of Education regulations
• South Carolina Commission on Higher Education requirements
• NCAA regulations as applicable
• Institutional policies and procedures
• Develop, maintain, and update financial aid policies and procedures.
• Coordinate audits, program reviews, and compliance monitoring activities.
• Respond to findings and implement corrective actions as necessary.
• Serve as the University's primary liaison with regulatory agencies and financial aid organizations.

Personnel Management

• Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate financial aid staff.
• Foster a culture of accountability, professionalism, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Provide professional development opportunities for staff.
• Ensure cross-training and succession planning within the department.

Technology and Data Management

• Oversee financial aid systems, software applications, and technology initiatives.
• Ensure data integrity and accurate reporting within the student information system.
• Utilize data analytics to support decision-making and improve service delivery.
• Generate reports related to financial aid operations, compliance, enrollment, and student success.

Budget and Fiscal Management

• Develop and manage departmental budgets.
• Monitor expenditures and ensure responsible fiscal management.
• Assist in the planning and allocation of institutional aid resources.
• Conduct financial analysis and forecasting related to aid programs and enrollment trends.

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in financial aid administration.
• Minimum of three (3) years of supervisory or management experience.
• Demonstrated experience administering federal Title IV financial aid programs.
• Experience with Banner, Ellucian, or similar student information systems preferred

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree from an accredited institution.
• NASFAA Credential(s) or other financial aid certifications.
• Experience at a public higher education institution.
• Experience managing financial aid audits, program reviews, and compliance initiatives.
• Demonstrated success in developing enrollment-focused financial aid strategies.
• Experience with scholarship management and institutional aid optimization.

Working Conditions

• Office environment with extended periods of computer work.
• Occasional evening and weekend work required.
• Travel may be required for conferences, professional development, and outreach activities.
• Ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.