FLSA EMPLOYMENT CATEGORY: Salaried; Exempt; Administrative; 12 months DEPARTMENT: Financial Aid POSITION SUMMARY: The Director of Financial Aid at Alma College plays a crucial role in ensuring students have access to the financial resources they need to pursue their education successfully. This position involves not only managing the day-to-day operations of the financial aid office but also contributing to strategic enrollment management initiatives aimed at enhancing the overall student experience. Key responsibilities include overseeing the administration of various financial aid programs, staying up to date with changes in regulations, and participating in professional associations to ensure compliance and best practices. Overall, this role requires a strong combination of leadership, organizational skills, and a deep understanding of financial aid programs and regulations. By prioritizing student support and staying informed about industry developments, the Director of Financial Aid plays a vital role in helping Alma College fulfill its mission of providing accessible education to all students. SUPERVISION RECEIVED/SUPERVISION EXERCISED: This position reports to the vice president for enrollment and supervises three full-time staff. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Strategic Partner: Work in alignment with the Offices of Admissions, Financial Services, Registrar, and Student Affairs to achieve new student enrollment and retention goals. Participate in partner meetings for financial aid optimization for incoming undergraduate students. Policy Development and Training: Develop, recommend, and update financial aid policies and procedures, including those on Alma College's website. Provide training to campus stakeholders as necessary. Financial Aid Administration: Oversee the application and awarding process for financial aid services, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations. Review appeals and exercise professional judgment when necessary. Technology Implementation: Work with IT and other Colleague support personnel to implement technology systems to streamline data processing, record keeping, and communication of financial aid information. Funds Disbursement and Reconciliation: Authorize the release of funds to students and ensure timely reconciliation of financial aid programs with funding sources and Student Financial Services. Regulatory Compliance and Reporting: Prepare and submit federal, state, and institutional reports, such as the FISAP, as well as ensure compliance with relevant regulations and agreements. Personnel Management: Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate staff members to maintain a high level of service and create a positive work environment. External: Serve as a liaison between the college and external agencies/institutions regarding financial aid matters, supporting advocacy efforts as needed. Participate in MICU and other state of Michigan organizations supporting independent colleges and higher education. Other duties may include Budget Management, Strategic Planning, and Committee participation. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: To excel in the role of Director of Financial Aid at Alma College, the ideal candidate should possess the following qualifications: Demonstrated knowledge of financial aid processes and administration. Deep knowledge base in both federal and state laws and regulations governing financial aid. Proficiency in providing exceptional customer service, including assessing student needs, setting service standards, and evaluating satisfaction. Ability to effectively lead and motivate staff members. Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, along with strong interpersonal abilities. Skill in addressing inquiries or complaints from customers, regulatory agencies, or community members. Demonstrated experience with positive and proactive problem-solving approaches. Ability to identify problems, create innovative solutions, manage projects, lead teams through collaboration, and implement efficiency and effectiveness using technology. A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: A master's degree Minimum of five years of administrative experience in student financial aid programs, preferably in a leadership role. Proficiency with various software tools such as, Microsoft Office and Federal operating systems, such as COD, NSLDS, and FAFSA Partner Portal. Familiarity with Ellucian Colleague. Experience working with underrepresented, first-generation, Pell-eligible, and diverse populations.

APPLICATION PROCESS: Interested candidates must submit the Alma College application, letter of interest, and a resume via the apply now button below. Applications will be accepted until June 30, 2024. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Alma College is classified as a selective Baccalaureate College: Diverse Fields by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. Committed to academic excellence and development of responsible leaders, Alma's students thrive on challenging academic programs in a supportive, small-college environment emphasizing active, collaborative learning and close student-faculty interaction. Alma is a private Phi Beta Kappa institution located in the center of Michigan's Lower Peninsula. Alma College is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse faculty, staff and student body. Alma College recognizes that we are all transformed when we celebrate and value the varied identities backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives in our campus community. We are committed to recognizing and removing barriers to success and providing equitable access to opportunities through education and advocacy. In our increasingly diverse campus and world, we pledge to create a climate where everyone is safe and free to grow intellectually, spiritually, and emotionally. For more information about the College, visit www.alma.edu. Apply Now