Deputy Director of Financial Aid Operations

Deputy Director of Financial Aid Operations Basic Function and Scope of Responsibilities: The Deputy Director of Financial Aid Operations plays a critical role in administering financial aid programs at Long Island University, focusing on strategic planning and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations. This position oversees daily financial aid operations, enhances student support, streamlines processes, and develops staff to uphold LIU’s commitment to accessibility and student success. The Deputy Director is responsible for alignment with university policies, deadlines, and compliance standards. With comprehensive knowledge of Financial Aid, Registrar, Student Accounting, Billing, and Cashiering functions, this position anticipates and resolves student enrollment issues, develops action plans, and creates policies to improve the student experience. Leadership & Compliance Act as a bridge between student support services and financial aid administration by implementing financial aid policies, enhancing customer service, and providing staff training to improve operational efficiency. Foster a collaborative environment through staff development, process improvements, and student engagement initiatives that prioritize excellence in service delivery. Collaborate with the Registrar’s Office to support transcript processing, enrollment verification, and student record management. Lead the development and implementation of financial literacy initiatives to educate students and families on financial planning, debt management, and available resources. Resolve escalated financial aid issues and provide guidance to students regarding financial aid eligibility, appeals, and special circumstances. Ensure that all bulletins, websites, and public resources are properly updated and maintained with the most current compliance requirements. Advise leadership on financial aid policies, procedures, and operational efficiencies. Develop and enforce internal policies that align with best practices and regulatory standard. Operations & Process Improvement Oversee daily operations of the financial aid office, ensuring accurate and timely processing of aid applications, verification, and disbursement. Support automation and technology enhancements to improve financial aid and registrar-related processes. Assist with audits, program reviews, and annual reporting requirements. Administer financial aid packaging and adjustments, ensuring compliance, resolving over-awards, and managing verification documents. Assist students with financial aid and payment processes, including FAFSA submission, financial planning, scholarships, and payment options. Staff Development & Training Supervise and mentor financial aid staff, providing training and professional development opportunities. Work closely with other university departments to ensure seamless student enrollment and retention strategies. Represent the financial aid office at university events, including open houses, athletic events, and orientation sessions, with an emphasis on public speaking to effectively communicate with students and families. Data Analysis & Reporting Compile and analyze financial aid data to inform decision-making and improve operational effectiveness. Provide reports on financial aid trends, student demographics, and aid disbursement. Perform other related duties incidental to the work described herein. Education Requirements Master’s Degree Required. Training, Skills, Knowledge, Experience: 7-10 years of progressive professional experience in higher education, student affairs or financial aid administration. Strong ability to work collaboratively with department heads and other members of the University community. Excellent written and spoken communication skills, including public speaking experience. High energy and enthusiasm to work with students' success. Familiarity with database management systems, e.g., Peoplesoft. High level of organization and attention to detail. Working Conditions: Flexible hours, including weekends and evenings, as required. Occasional travel between LIU campuses for training, meetings, and university functions. LIU is an equal opportunity employer. LIU is committed to extending equal opportunity in employment to all qualified candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of our academic community. LIU encourages applications from all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender and/or gender identity or expression, marital or parental status, national origin, ethnicity, citizenship status, veteran or military status, age, disability or any other basis protected by applicable local, state or federal laws. Hiring is contingent on eligibility to work in the United States. #J-18808-Ljbffr