Director of Financial Aid

OverviewDirector of Financial Aid at Inside Higher Ed (location: Binghamton, NY). The position reports to the Vice Provost for Enrollment Management and leads financial aid operations to support enrollment, retention, and compliance with federal, state, and institutional policies.ResponsibilitiesLeadership and StrategyLead and supervise the financial aid team (4 direct reports; total team of 9). Foster a collaborative, student-centered, results-oriented environment.Develop, implement, and manage a strategic financial aid plan that supports enrollment, retention, and access goals.Data-driven decision making: use data analytics to assess aid effectiveness, adjust award structures, and inform resource allocation. Include analyses of demographics, need profiles, yield, and retention; utilize predictive modeling to project impact on enrollment and success.Maximize financial aid resources across institutional, state, and federal funds while balancing merit-based and need-based aid and ensuring compliance and flexibility in packaging.Promote equity and access through policy development and targeted aid initiatives. Collaborate on affordability messaging with marketing, admissions, and student support teams to communicate true cost of attendance after aid.Design aid packages with a multi-year perspective to support retention and completion; review/adjust awards for returning students as circumstances change.Engage in continuous improvement by monitoring trends in aid programs, pricing models, and strategies to remain competitive and accessible.Financial Aid AdministrationOversee administration of federal, state, and institutional aid (grants, scholarships, loans, work-study).Ensure accurate and timely processing of applications, awards, disbursements, and reconciliations.Maintain compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations; conduct audits and program reviews as needed.Provide high level customer service to students and families regarding aid packages.Collaborate with Bursar to ensure timely tuition billing and aid disbursement.Compliance & ReportingStay informed of changes in federal/state regulations and implement compliance measures.Prepare and submit required reports (e.g., annual FISAP, IPEDS) and participate in audits and program reviews.Maintain accurate records for reporting and auditing purposes.Financial Aid CounselingDevelop and implement counseling programs on debt management and financial planning.Counsel students and families on policies, options, and processes to improve understanding and satisfaction.Assist students with appeals, special circumstances, and professional judgment cases to ensure equitable aid decisions.Technology & SystemsOversee maintenance and enhancement of financial aid systems (e.g., Banner and online portals).Lead efforts to leverage technology to streamline processes and improve communication and user experience.Collaborate with IT and other departments to ensure data integrity, security, and system integration.About the InstitutionBinghamton University is a premier public R1 research institution in the SUNY system with 130+ programs. It emphasizes student success, research, and service, and values an inclusive culture.QualificationsRequirementsEducation & ExperienceBachelor’s degreeMinimum seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in financial aid administration, with at least three (3) years in a leadership roleExtensive knowledge of federal and state financial aid regulations (Title IV)Experience with financial aid management systems (e.g., Banner) and leveraging technology to improve processesSkills & CompetenciesStrong leadership and team management; collaborative and positive work environmentAnalytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilitiesExcellent communication and interpersonal skills; ability to work with diverse constituenciesCommitment to student success and equityAbility to manage complex budgets and multiple priorities in a fast-paced environmentPreferred QualificationsExperience in a public institution, particularly mid-size or highly ranked universityActive involvement in professional financial aid associations and ongoing policy educationVisa sponsorship is not available for this position.Additional InformationOffers may be contingent on a pre-employment background check and verification of degrees/credentials. Binghamton University is tobacco-free. Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. The university does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, disability, national origin, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, veteran status, or other protected status. For Title IX information and non-discrimination notices, see the university’s Title IX Coordinator and OCR contacts in the posted notice.Application Instructions: All applicants must apply via Interview Exchange: http://binghamton.interviewexchange.com/candapply.jsp?JOBID=192120Deadline for Internal Applicants: September 11, 2025; External: Open until filled. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the vacancy is filled.Please Submit: Resume; Cover letter; References (three professionals).You may add documents after uploading your resume at http://binghamton.interviewexchange.com/login.jsp. #J-18808-Ljbffr