Director of Financial Aid

Job description

The Director of Financial Aid provides strategic and operational leadership for the Office of Financial Aid Administration (OFAA) and is responsible for the administration, compliance, and delivery of federal, state, and select institutional financial aid programs. The Director serves as the University's principal authority on Title IV and state student financial aid regulations and related compliance matters, ensuring the institution maintains full compliance with all applicable federal and state laws, regulations, reporting requirements, and audit standards. This is an exciting opportunity to join a student-centered institution committed to access, affordability, and student success while leading a talented, veteran team.

This position reports to the Chief Enrollment Operations Officer and Executive Director of Student Financial Services (SFS). SFS at UWM is comprised of OFAA, the Office of Student Accounts (OSA), the Office of Student Scholarships (OSS), and the Student Financial Service Center (SFSC). The Director collaborates regularly with the Executive Director and other SFS department leaders to advance a coordinated and strategic approach to supporting student finances. Daily student advising and other outreach and support are provided by dedicated advisors in the SFSC.

As a key member of the Division of Strategic Enrollment Management and Student Success, the Director provides leadership that supports student access, persistence, and completion through efficient, compliant, and student-centered financial aid operations. The Director is responsible for establishing and maintaining a culture of compliance, continuous improvement, operational excellence, accountability, and collaboration while utilizing technology and data-informed decision making to improve service delivery and institutional effectiveness.

This role offers flexibility for a blended in-office and remote schedule over time. The successful candidate will be expected to report to campus multiple days per week.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree.

Seven or more years of progressively responsible financial aid experience, including at least three years of supervisory or leadership experience.

Advanced knowledge of federal Title IV regulations, state financial aid programs, and related compliance requirements.

Demonstrated ability to interpret and implement complex regulatory guidance while effectively managing compliance and institutional risk.

Experience with federal financial aid systems and reporting tools, including the FISAP, Common Origination & Disbursement (COD) system, National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS), and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Partner Portal.

Preferred Qualifications

Master's degree in higher education administration or a related field, or more than 15 years of professional experience in higher education.

Experience administering financial aid at a large public university with a broad range of student populations and financial aid needs, including first-generation students and Pell Grant recipients.

Strong leadership, analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills, with a collaborative and student-centered approach.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Certified Financial Aid Administrator (FAAC) designation or other advanced financial aid certification.

Experience leading financial aid audits, federal program reviews, or other compliance-related initiatives.

Familiarity with financial aid technology solutions, workflow automation, and reporting tools.

Knowledge of Universities of Wisconsin policies and procedures and PeopleSoft Campus Solutions.

Active participation in professional financial aid associations.

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Who can apply

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