Executive Director- Student Financial Services

OverviewThe Executive Director of Student Financial Services serves as a senior leader within the Enrollment Management and Marketing division, providing strategic oversight and operational leadership across Financial Aid, Bursar Services, and Military and Veterans Benefits. This role is central to advancing institutional goals through cross-functional collaboration, data-informed decision-making, and student-centered service. The Executive Director ensures compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations related to student aid, scholarships, loans, and military benefits. They lead key audits—including the annual FSA Single Audit—and serve as the primary liaison with external auditors and the U.S. Department of Education. A strong commitment to financial aid integrity and fraud prevention is essential, with responsibility for implementing safeguards, monitoring risk indicators, and ensuring ethical stewardship of all aid programs. This position requires deep expertise in Federal Student Aid (FSA) program administration, including student counseling, need analysis, satisfactory academic progress, aid packaging, loan origination and disbursement, and fiscal reconciliation. The Executive Director drives process improvement, regulatory compliance, and initiatives that support student success, retention, and satisfaction. Collaboration is essential. The Executive Director works closely with colleagues across Enrollment Management—including Admissions, Registrar, Advising, and Marketing—as well as academic departments and student support services to improve registration outcomes, support enrollment growth, and elevate student experience. This role also champions a culture of belonging, ensuring that financial services are inclusive, equitable, and responsive to the needs of the student population.ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership & VisionProvide visionary leadership aligned with the University’s mission and strategic prioritiesDevelop long-term plans to enhance service delivery, operational efficiency, and student satisfactionAdvise senior leadership on financial aid, student accounts, and Veteran benefitsBuild strong partnerships across campus to integrate financial services with broader student success strategiesPromote a culture of belonging, ensuring all students feel respected, supported, and valuedOperational OversightLead integrated operations across financial aid, student accounts, and military/Veteran billingMonitor performance metrics to drive continuous improvementMaintain a regulatory calendar to ensure timely execution of key processesCompliance, Integrity & Risk ManagementEnsure compliance with Title IV, FERPA, and other applicable regulationsServe as primary liaison to external auditors and regulatory agenciesConduct internal audits and risk assessments to proactively address issuesUphold financial aid integrity by implementing fraud prevention protocols and ethical oversight practicesFinancial StewardshipOversee budget planning and resource allocationCoordinate reconciliation of aid disbursements and student accountsSupport enrollment and retention through strategic aid packaging and tuition managementTechnology & Systems IntegrationLead implementation and optimization of financial systemsCollaborate with ITS and other departments to ensure data integrity and system interoperabilityTeam Development & CultureSupervise and mentor department leaders and staffPromote a culture of accountability, innovation, and service excellenceDeliver professional development and foster an inclusive, respectful environmentEncourage team practices that reflect empathy, equity, and cultural awarenessStudent-Centered ServiceChampion a student-first approach to financial servicesResolve complex student issues with empathy and sound judgmentCollaborate with campus stakeholders to align financial services with broader student supportQualificationsBachelor’s degree and a minimum of six years of progressively responsible experience, including leadership roles within financial aid, student financial services, or enrollment management at an accredited institutionExperience with PowerFAIDS and a commitment to supporting diverse adult learners in distance educationStrong collaborative leadership and management skillsProficiency in CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce), Student Information Systems, and Microsoft Office SuiteThe hiring salary range for this position is $110,000.00 - $122,000.00. The hiring salary range above represents the University’s good faith estimate at the time of posting.Application InformationIf you have problems with online submission, please call 518-608-8238.Excelsior University offers competitive compensation and a generous benefits package that includes paid time off, retirement, and excellent health insurance. Interested candidates should submit a letter of application, resume, and the names of three professional references. Please submit requested information by clicking the Apply Now button on this page.Excelsior University is an equal opportunity employer committed to ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to any legally protected characteristic. AA/EOE/ADA #J-18808-Ljbffr