Director of Student Account Services

About the CompanyThe Director of Student Account Services oversees the Student Account Services functions of the University of Montana, including the payment phase of the registration process and application of all financial aid which requires experience administering student accounts and knowledge of FERPA. About the RoleThe Director of Student Account Services develops and implements policy regarding student accounts and is responsible for all areas of the University's Student Accounts Receivable system. As a critical integrated service area of the University, the Director of Student Accounts position requires working cooperatively and collaboratively with many various personnel and departments across the University of Montana to maximize a positive student experience, financial performance, creativity, and problem solving, to achieve the best possible results. ResponsibilitiesThe Director of Student Account Services manages Student Accounts, Student Accounts Receivable Collections, Cashiering, and other Accounts Receivable functions and interacts with students, faculty and other employees as well as external funding entities to help ensure procedures are streamlined, efficient and meet university standards.

Collaborates with financial aid, registrar and other offices to resolve issues with student accounts in a timely fashion, especially during high volume times of the year. Works in conjunction with financial aid with the Return of Title IV funds for federal financial aid funds, and ensuring student refunds are accurate and timely and in accordance with all local, state and federal regulations. Reviews financial accounting reports to ensure accuracy and timeliness of student account transactions; oversees the student appeal process (including updates to student accounts); monitors student account charge-offs and oversees activities with the student account payment plans. Responsible for hiring, disciplinary actions, mentoring, evaluating and supervising the Associate Director of Student Accounts, Student Accounts Specialists and Treasury Staff.

Additionally, The Director of Student Account Services provides oversight and leadership for their employees. The Director of Student Account Services evaluates performance of the individuals supervised, as well as the team as a whole. The Director of Student Account Services is responsible for the following supervisory, policy and other responsibilities: Supervising and reviewing the functions related to the cash receivables of the University including, but not limited to, student accounting and third party payment transactions;Supervising and reviewing the function and performance of staff and activities within Student Account Services;Assists with the development and implementation of policies and procedures;Supervising the certification of students who qualify for legislatively established tuition and fee exemptions;Reconciling general ledger accounts that include student receivables;Supervising the daily operation of bank deposits;Ensuring employees are trained in the areas of student financials and accounts receivable/billing processing;Coordinating with external cash processing vendors on student payment plans and preparing reconciliation to student receivables;Preparing and discussing employee reviews and planning;Assist in the preparation of various financial reports and statements;Other duties as assigned by supervisor. QualificationsBachelor's degree in business, finance or related field;Five or more years of experience at a similar institution of higher education;Management and supervisory experience in a finance/customer service environment; Required SkillsKnowledge of complex integrated enterprise resource management software such as Ellucian/Banner Finance, Ellucian/Banner Student, and other Ellucian products to produce accurate billing statements and provide excellent student support;Knowledge and experience with ECSI loan servicing system;Knowledge of PC software (Word, Excel, Access, Outlook, PowerPoint) Including advanced Excel skills, such as Vlookup, Index, Pivot Tables;Experience with an third-party payment tool, such as Touchnet or Nelnet ePayment;Experience with implementing student retention strategies;Knowledge of IRS rules to supervise/generate and distribute form 1098-T to students.

Preferred SkillsAptitude for interpreting and communicating financial data to individuals from a non-financial background;Successful experience managing multiple projects and priorities proactively;Analytical and problem solving skills;Proficient in preparing, formatting, and reviewing business correspondence and reports, including publicly published materials (i.e. website, catalog);Possess highly developed interpersonal, communication, presentation and organizational skills and the ability to draw from experience in creating creative solutions to meet the University's objectives and serve students while maintaining compliance with applicable rules and regulations;Ability to treat sensitive information with discretion, demonstrate tact and diplomacy possess excellent negotiation skills, and be able to make decisions supported by policy;Highly developed ability to prioritize and arrange job assignments;Excellent analytical and problem solving skills;Proficient in oral and written English communications;Ability to work independently and meet deadlines or as part of a team, and be adaptable to changing job requirements and deadlines;Student-centered focus and work ethic;Ability to actively foster a respectful, positive work environment that welcomes all persons;Demonstrated interest in developing financial literacy skills among students. Pay range and compensation packageNot specified. Equal Opportunity StatementThe University of Montana is committed to diversity and inclusivity.