Financial Aid Director, Online Education

The Online Financial Aid Director is responsible for managing and overseeing all financial aid operations for the online campus, ensuring that financial aid processes are carried out efficiently, effectively, and in compliance with federal and state regulation and institutional policy. This position requires a dynamic leader who is not only skilled in financial aid administration but also committed to creating a supportive, accessible, and transparent financial aid experience for all online students.

Working in coordination with the College’s System Office, the Director will provide strategic direction and supervision of the financial aid team and develop operational policies and procedures consistent with institutional policy. This role requires the ability to adapt to a fast-paced environment and a dedication to continuous professional development to stay current with industry standards and best practices.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

 Leadership & Team Management

• Supervise daily operations of financial aid staff, including customer service, new and continuing student advisors, and verification teams.
• Recruit, hire, and conduct performance evaluations for staff.
• Ensure ongoing training and professional development for the financial aid team.
• Maintain high customer service standards for students and internal departments.

Financial Aid Operations & Compliance

• Oversee financial aid disbursement and cash management, ensuring timely packaging.

• Develop and implement procedures to ensure the efficient operations of online financial aid.

• Ensure appropriate systems and controls are in-place and monitored to ensure the campus remains in full compliance with all applicable agreements.
• Responsible for managing institutional quality review and federal audit processes pertaining to the online campus.

Student Support & Financial Counseling

• Ensure proper processes and guidelines are followed to advise students on financial aid options, financial literacy, and regulatory requirements.
• Communicate students' rights and responsibilities regarding aid programs.
• Ensure high-quality customer service and meet call quality assurance objectives.

Collaboration & Reporting

• Coordinate with the Business Office for proper cash management.
• Ensure accurate and timely reporting of Drops and R2T4’s processes are followed.
• Prepare financial aid reports for leadership meetings.
• Manage scholarships and institutional grants within budget guidelines.

Strategic Initiatives & Institutional Support

• Participate in campus management team efforts to enhance student support and enrollment outcomes.
• Adapt financial aid processes to align with institutional goals and regulatory changes.

College Competencies:

• Accountability, adaptability, and strategic decision-making.
• Strong team-building and coaching abilities.
• Emotional intelligence and resilience under pressure.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s preferred.
• 5–7 years in financial aid with 5 years managing teams of 20 staff.
• Strong leadership, customer service, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and financial aid systems.

 Physical Demands and Work Environment:

• Primarily office-based; requires sitting, computer use, and occasional lifting (up to 10 lbs).
• Must be able to communicate effectively in person and via phone.

Position Status: Exempt
Work Hours: Monday–Friday (8 am–5 pm), some evenings & weekends
Reports To: Vice President of Online Operations
Location: Online Education Division, Orchard Park, NY (Not a remote position)

Background Check or Licensing Requirements:

This position requires a background check.

Starting Salary Range: $120,000 - $140,000  per year

Please note that the compensation information is a good faith estimate of the base pay for this position. The selected candidate’s actual base pay for this role will take into account a wide range of non-discriminatory factors including but not limited to skill sets, experience and training, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The disclosed range estimate may not have been adjusted for the applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled. At Bryant & Stratton College, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their role and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. Information about the total compensation package for this position will be provided during the interview process.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or protected veteran status, or any other legally protected basis, in accordance with applicable law. Bryant & Stratton College is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Salary : $120,000 - $140,000