"Senior Director of Student Financial Services"

Job Summary

The Senior Director of Student Financial Services reports to the Vice President for Enrollment and External Affairs and provides leadership for a newly integrated team responsible for student financial aid and bursar functions, financial advising, and financial literacy. The Director will ensure regulatory compliance, enhance service delivery, and promote accountability in the management of all federal, state, and institutional aid programs. Working collaboratively across the College, this leader will streamline processes, strengthen cross-departmental coordination, and improve the student experience, aligning financial services with Barnard's mission of equity, access, and inclusion.

Key priorities include ensuring compliance with all federal, state, and institutional regulations; implementing effective policies and internal controls; supporting enrollment and retention goals through sound financial planning; and collaborating with offices such as Admissions, the Registrar, Academic Advising, and Access Barnard to deliver coordinated student support.

Responsibilities

• Lead the transformation of the traditional Financial Aid and Bursar Offices into an integrated, student-centered Financial Services Office that will be responsible for student financial aid, billing, financial advising, and student financial literacy. Collaborate with senior leadership to define the vision, goals, and strategic roadmap for financial services at Barnard.
• Develop and maintain policies, procedures, and internal controls that ensure full compliance with all federal, state, and institutional regulation and audit readiness.
• Monitor regulatory changes, interpret guidance, and promote a culture of accountability and continuous learning.
• Utilize data analytics and system integrations to enhance forecasting and operational decision-making.
• Serve as the College's primary compliance officer for financial aid audits and reporting, and monitor evolving federal and state requirements.
• Use data analytics and system integration to enhance forecasting, strategic planning, and operational decision-making.
• Build an integrated "One Stop" financial services model with a service-first culture to ensure students understand their financial options and receive exceptional service.
• Oversee seamless, cross-functional operations encompassing financial aid, billing, collections, and financial literacy programs.
• Leverage technology (e.g., SIS, CRM, self-service portals) to improve efficiency, accessibility, and transparency for students and families.
• Train and develop staff to deliver empathetic, responsive, and clear communication with students and families.
• Collaborate with partners across the College to coordinate student support and strengthen financial fluency.

Skills, Qualifications & Requirements

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree and at least eight years of progressive experience in financial aid administration, including Title IV compliance and an in-depth understanding of federal and state financial aid regulations, compliance, and reporting requirements.
• Strong knowledge of financial aid and student information systems (PowerFAIDS, Workday and Technolutions Slate preferred).
• Proven leadership, communication, and team development skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to access, equity, and inclusion in higher education.
• Ability to work on campus during all working hours, with flexibility for select evenings and weekends.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in business, finance, higher education administration, or a related field.

Required Competencies:

• Strong customer service orientation with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Advanced analytical and project management abilities.
• Demonstrated success in team building and staff development.

This job is currently a hybrid position, but may require a presence in the office up to five times a week depending on operational needs.