Director of Financial Aid

IMPORTANT APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• Upload Resume or Curriculum Vitae for automatic population of information to the application.
• The contact information, work experience, and education listed on your Resume/CV will be parsed and input into your Montclair application.
• Review information and double-check all fields containing information that the system parsed - the software is intelligent, but you need to verify that the data is accurate.
• In the "My Experience" section, you will find a Resume/CV upload option where you can submit your cover letter and all other supporting documents.

Note: If you have an expansive CV, we recommend that you apply manually and only include the positions you have held in the last ten (10) years. You will then be able to attach your Resume/CV, as well as all other supporting documentation in the "My Experience" section of your application.

SUMMARY:

Reporting to the Vice President of Enrollment Management, The Director of Financial Aid serves as a member of the Enrollment Management leadership team and is responsible for leading the financial aid office at Montclair State University and Bloomfield College of Montclair State University. The Director collaborates across divisions to ensure the effective administration of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs. The Director develops and implements policies that promote compliance, efficiency, and student accessibility to financial resources, thereby enhancing student retention, satisfaction, and success.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight for all financial aid operations, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations.
• Develop, implement, and review financial aid policies and procedures to enhance the student financial aid experience and align with Montclair State University's mission and goals.
• Manage the awarding and disbursement of financial aid funds, including scholarships, grants, and loans, while monitoring student eligibility and financial need.
• Collaborate with enrollment management, academic departments, and other university stakeholders to support recruitment and retention initiatives through effective financial aid strategies.
• Oversee financial aid staff members, fostering a culture of excellence in customer service and professional development.
• Analyze data related to financial aid distribution, reporting trends, and outcomes to inform decision-making and improve processes.
• Develop and implement financial literacy programs for students and families, enhancing understanding of financial aid options and debt management.
• Maintain accurate financial aid records and reports, ensuring timely submission to regulatory agencies and internal stakeholders.
• Act as a liaison with external agencies and organizations related to financial aid, promoting awareness and collaboration.
• Represent Montclair State University at state and national financial aid associations and conferences.
• Manage an operating budget of $2 million and resources effectively.
• Stay current with changes in financial aid regulations and best practices, implementing necessary adjustments to university policies and procedures.
• Collaborate with the IT department to enhance and maintain financial aid systems and technology infrastructure.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with donors and scholarship providers to maximize financial aid opportunities for students.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Management retains the right to change or add job duties at any time.

QUALIFICATIONS:

REQUIRED:

• Master's degree from an accredited college or university in Higher Education Administration, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressive management experience in financial aid or a related area within higher education.
• Strong knowledge of federal and state financial aid regulations and compliance issues.
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience with Ellucian Banner or other Student Information Systems.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across various departments and with diverse populations.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in financial aid software and data management systems.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply complex regulations and policies.
• Experience in developing and implementing strategic plans and initiatives.

PREFERRED:

• Proven leadership skills and experience managing staff effectively in a complex organizational environment.
• Familiarity with financial literacy initiatives and program development in a university setting.
• Ability to engage diverse populations and understand their unique financial needs.
• Strong public speaking and presentation skills, with experience presenting to various stakeholders.
• Resourceful, flexible, and capable of problem-solving in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience in a public university setting, preferably with a large student body similar to Montclair State University.
• Active involvement in professional organizations such as NASFAA (National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators) or state-level financial aid associations.
• Knowledge of New Jersey state financial aid programs and regulations.
• Experience with implementing and managing scholarship management systems.
• Demonstrated success in process improvement and operational efficiency initiatives.

PROCEDURE FOR CANDIDACY

Applicants should include a resume and cover letter describing how their background, skills and education match the needs of the University. When applying, please take a moment to carefully read and follow the steps in the application instructions.

Department
Enrollment Management

Position Type
Administrative

Contact Information:

For questions or concerns, please contact Human Resources' Workday Recruiting Support at *** (Option 2), or email talent@montclair.edu.

EEO/AA Statement

Montclair State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action institution with a strong commitment to diversity.

Additional information can be found on the website at
montclair.edu/human-resources/about-us/eo-aa-and-diversity/

Title IX and 34 C.F.R. 106 Policy

Montclair State is required by Title IX and 34 C.F.R. 106 not to discriminate on the basis of sex or gender, and does not discriminate on the basis of sex or gender in the operation of education programs and activities. The requirement to not discriminate on the basis of sex or gender in the operation of education programs and activities extends to admission and employment. For further details, please visit: /montclair.edu/human-resources/job-seekers/