Executive Director of Financial Aid - Grand Rapids Community College

The Executive Director of Financial Aid provides vision, leadership, and management of the Financial Aid Office and its staff, which awards approximately $35 million annually in federal, state, and institutional aid. This position ensures financial aid services are delivered in a timely and equitable manner, following regulatory compliance. As a member of the Student Success division, this position also is responsible for the exemplary stewardship of institutional, private, state, and federal financial aid funds aimed at helping to meet college strategic enrollment goals and student access, retention, and completion objectives. The Executive Director of Financial Aid reports to the Associate Dean of Student Success - Support and Retention (temporarily Interim Associate Provost of Instructional Support and Institutional Planning).

Requisition ID: 42
Department: Financial Aid
Group: Meet & Confer
Schedule: 40 Hours/52 Weeks
Compensation: AM5, $90,468
Benefits: Full Time
Reports to: Associate Dean of Student Success - Support and Retention (temporarily reporting to the Interim Associate Provost of Instructional Support and Institutional Planning)
Posting Opens: 08/14/2024
Posting Closes: Open Until Filled

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Lead and supervise the daily operation and functions of the Financial Aid Office.
• Hire, evaluate, identify training needs, and mentor Financial Aid staff members.
• Develop and implement annual department plans that align with the strategic goals of the college, as well as those of the Enrollment Management Team and Student Affairs.
• Serve as primary institutional contact for the Department of Education.
• Monitor sources from the federal and state governments regarding current and future changes in regulations related to GRCC’s participation in financial aid programs. Communicate information to GRCC leadership, including how the changes will affect GRCC.
• Ensure institutional compliance with federal and state regulations pertaining to the administration of various financial aid programs, as well as compliance with related provisions that impact institutional aid eligibility. These include, but are not limited to, program and curriculum development, the Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Policy, Title IX, consumer information, etc.
• Prepare for and coordinate annual audits, as well as state and federal program reviews, as needed.
• Provide appropriate updates and reports regarding changes in compliance and policy matters to the Associate Dean, Dean, Provost, President, and other college leadership.
• Coordinate with Instructional Support and other faculty and staff members to offer financial aid eligibility guidance related to new programs.
• Ensure the college's Eligibility and Certification Approval Report (ECAR) and the Program Participation Agreement (PPA) are in good standing with regard to federal compliance. Oversee the PPA recertification process, as needed.
• Responsible for the annual completion and submission of the Fiscal Operations Report and Application to Participate (FISAP), as well as all other state and federal financial aid reporting requirements.
• Guide and oversee the development, documentation, and implementation of financial aid policies and procedures that adhere to federal and state compliance requirements and align with GRCC's Mission, Vision, Values, and Strategic Plan.
• Responsible for gathering, monitoring, assessing, and reporting financial aid information and data for
• various programs and services, and using this data and assessment for change management and improvement initiatives.
• Monitor campus-based aid (Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant and Federal Work- Study) allocations. In coordination with the Business and Finance and Student Employment Services Offices, reconcile Federal Work-Study awards and earnings on a monthly basis.
• Assess the effectiveness of technology support systems that are directly connected to financial aid processes and services. Lead the exploration and implementation of new technology solutions to streamline financial aid processes and improve service delivery.
• Assess vendor software and service quotations and proposals, as necessary. Contract and coordinate with consultants and implementation teams to monitor and improve financial aid compliance and service delivery.
• Serve as budget control officer (BCO) for the Financial Aid Office. Approve all department requests for budget expenditures and fund transfers, and monitor monthly budget reports. Identify office budget needs and submit annual and mid-year budget requests.
• Develop and implement operational student procedures, processes, and communications that enhance student navigation of the financial aid system and overall experience.
• Coordinate campus wide communications, updates, and training on financial aid requirements and changes impacting students or operational processes.
• Resolve student concerns and complaints, including follow-up and documentation for accountability reporting and process improvement opportunities.
• Participate in financial aid presentations and FAFSA workshops on campus and at area high schools and local agencies.
• As a member of the Student Success division, support established strategic enrollment and retention priorities and initiatives.
• Attend and actively participate in the Academic and Student Affairs Council, Default Management Team, Curriculum Approval Team, Drug and Alcohol Abuse and Prevention Program Team, and the Strategic Leadership Team. Provide input at the Academic Governing Council, when requested. Participate in strategic initiatives, policy review teams, and other committees, as needed.
• Regular attendance during normal scheduled hours is required. Being present is essential for serving customers and performing the essential functions of this position.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS

Education Credentials

• Master's Degree in higher education, finance or related area required

Work Experience

• Five years of required experience:
  • Administering state and federal Title IV student financial aid programs at a post-secondary level
  • With state and federal compliance regulations and reporting requirements
  • Supervising and leading Financial Aid offices

Skills

• Ability to maintain positive interpersonal relationships, build teams, and motivate others
• High level of computer literacy, technological proficiency, and student information system skills
• Expertise with financial aid-related software and web systems (SAIG, COD, NSLDS, FAAccess, etc.)
• Strong analytical skills and comfort with technology and statistical data analysis
• Skills and expertise in planning, project management, and implementation of continuous quality improvement initiatives
• Excellent listening and communication skills with the demonstrated ability to work effectively with a diverse student, faculty, staff, and business partner population.
• Demonstrated analytical and problem solving skills
• Exceptional planning and organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple, complex projects simultaneously
• A high level of personal and professional integrity and ability to maintain confidentiality
• Ability to delegate work appropriately, set clear directives and goals, and manage the workflow of staff

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift and move up to 25 pounds
• Ability to sit for extended periods of time
• Standing for an hour or more during presentations and events

Mental Demands

• Must demonstrate attention to detail, organizational skills, financial accountability, strategic thinking, sound decision-making, and problem-solving ability
• Ability to work under pressure and in an environment with frequent interruptions
• Must use good judgment in handling sensitive, confidential, or difficult situations in a pleasant and professional manner
• Ability to perform routine and unexpected duties with minimal supervision
• Ability to take direction, use discretion, and maintain a high degree of professionalism and responsiveness in daily interactions with a broad range of stakeholders
• Willingness to work as a part of a team and lead projects

Working Conditions

• GRCC will comply with any mandated health and safety requirements. Compliance information is available on our policies website.
• Ability to function effectively as a member of a team in a multi-person and high volume academic and student affairs department
• Ability to work flexible hours as needed. May require occasional evening and weekend hours
• Some travel may be required to participate in professional organizations and conferences

NEXT STEPS / APPLICATION PROCESS

• Please fill out an application at https://www.grcc.edu/jobs. Submit a cover letter and resume. The opportunity to apply for this position will close at the end of the day on the close date referenced at the top of this job posting.

• Predictive Index Assessment (behavioral & cognitive) REQUIRED: In order to have your application considered, you must complete the assessments: https://assessment.predictiveindex.com/bo/8MMT/exec_dir_fin_aid

HIRING PROCESS

GRCC uses an Evidence Based Selection Process, where we make data driven hiring decisions to help mitigate bias throughout the hiring process. As part of this process, candidates will participate in assessments (cognitive and behavioral), reference checks and interviews.

Individuals with diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Grand Rapids Community College is an equal opportunity employer. Visa sponsorship is not available.

NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT

Grand Rapids Community College creates an inclusive learning and working environment that recognizes the value and dignity of each person. It is the policy and practice of GRCC to provide equal educational and employment opportunities regardless of age, race, color, religion, marital status, sex/gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, height, weight, national origin, disability, political affiliation, familial status, veteran status or genetics in all programs, activities, services, employment and advancement including admissions to, access to, treatment in, or compensation in employment as required by state and federal law. GRCC is committed to reviewing all aspects of GRCC programs, activities, services and employment, including recruitment, selection, retention and promotion to identify and eliminate barriers in order to prevent discrimination on the basis of the listed protected characteristics. The college will not tolerate any form of retaliation against any person for bringing charges of discrimination or participating in an investigation. Further information may be obtained from the EEO Office or the Office of General Counsel, 143 Bostwick Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-3295.