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Job Summary:
Manages all aspects of financial aid operations for the University. Primary focus is to provide effective
leadership in the development and administration of all financial aid programs, processes, and staff. Directly responsible to manage the
University’s interface with all government agencies providing student financial aid funds. Responsible for the financial aid aspects
of the annual Single Audit. The Director regularly interfaces with Vice Presidents and Unit Executives. Position requires travel. Position
may be located at the Ottawa, Kansas or Surprise, Arizona residential campus location.
Essential Duties and
Responsibilities:
- Manage all aspects of financial aid administration ensuring that the University meets or exceeds
government compliance standards for eligibility for Title IV funds as well as any state funds awarded by the University. Assure that the
University responds quickly and effectively to prospective and current student needs. Communicate regularly with the Unit Executives to
understand their requirements relative to financial aid as well as student recruitment and retention and to identify any concerns that need
to be addressed in the financial aid processes. - Identify ways to improve student communications regarding financial aid including
web-based systems. Implement steps to keep the University’s student loan default rate low compared to institutional
averages. - Implement monitoring and self-assessment programs to evaluate compliance, adequacy of procedures, and staff
competency. Identify and implement process improvements to increase the effectiveness of financial aid operations centrally and at each
unit. Evaluate and recommend technology investments to streamline financial aid operations and strengthen staff effectiveness including
business case analysis and project management techniques. - Ensure that all financial aid operations and staffs work
collaboratively to provide an effective and responsive customer support services for prospective as well as current University students.
Initiate and maintain programs and communications to assist students in financial aid planning for their educational costs. Regularly
evaluate cycle time and information timeliness and adequacy. Work with the Unit Executives to provide input to their financial aid staff
performance evaluations. - Ensure that the University is compliant with all Title IV regulations and that financial aid is
awarded and disbursed timely. - Make sure the FISAP, IPEDS, NAIA, KICA and all other reports (e.g. US News and World Report) are
submitted accurately and on time. - Manage your staff consistent with university personnel policies. Encourage collaboration among
the staff and with others, provide regular feedback, and facilitate developmental opportunities. Provide appropriate tools, education, and
training, including professional development, for all financial aid staff at all units. - Provide leadership to those with whom you
work through your conduct, attitude, and professionalism. Represent the university to students, faculty, staff, and external groups in a way
that reflects well on OU. - Understand the University’s policies and procedures and exercise judgment accordingly. Ensure
policies are implemented, employees and students are safe, and that University information is handled confidentially and in alignment with
the University’s Code of Conduct and Ethics.
Qualifications:
Education: Bachelor’s Degree
required; Master’s degree in business or related field preferred.
Work Experience: 10 years or more in financial aid
administration; significant management responsibilities.
Required Skills and Abilities: Thorough knowledge of federal financial aid
with demonstrated abilities in applying requirements in a variety of settings; experience in process management and the use of information
technologies; proven leadership skills working in collaborative organizations; excellent oral and written communications skills.
