Executive Director of Financial Aid Services
Moravian University (www.moravian.edu), the nation’s sixth oldest college institution and the fastest-growing university in the region, seeks an energetic, talented, and collaborative leader to serve as the Executive Director of Financial Aid Services. Reporting to the Assistant Vice President of Enrollment, the Executive Director of Financial Aid Services will oversee the financial aid office and lead a team of dedicated professionals in providing comprehensive financial aid services to students and families.
The Executive Director of Financial Aid will be responsible for developing and implementing strategic initiatives to enhance the delivery of financial aid programs and services, ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, and support the university’s commitment to access and affordability in higher education. This senior leadership role is pivotal in providing strategic direction, ensuring compliance with regulations, and effectively managing financial resources.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Provide strategic leadership and direction for the financial aid office, including goal setting, budget management, and resource allocation.
- Oversee the administration of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs, ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations, policies, and procedures.
- Collaborate with university leadership, including the Vice President for Enrollment Management, to develop and implement financial aid strategies to support enrollment goals and student retention efforts across all student populations.
- Supervise and mentor a team of financial aid professionals, including assistant directors, associate directors, and advisors, providing guidance, training, and professional development opportunities.
- Develop and implement policies and procedures to streamline financial aid processes and improve service delivery to students and families.
- Collect and analyze data and trends to assess the effectiveness of financial aid programs and identify opportunities for improvement.
- Develop and implement financial aid packaging strategies that support enrollment and retention objectives, fostering access and affordability for all students.
- Oversee complex financial aid cases and appeals, ensuring fair and consistent decisions while prioritizing student needs and institutional goals.
- Represent the financial aid office on campus committees and task forces, as well as in external professional organizations and associations.
- Serve as a resource and liaison to other university departments, including admissions, registrar, student accounts, and academic advising, to ensure coordinated support for students throughout their financial aid journey.
- Develop, participate, and train staff in how to effectively present financial aid workshops, orientations, and outreach events to educate students, parents, and the community about financial aid resources and opportunities, including conducting group presentations and workshops on various financial aid topics.
- Collaborate with the university’s marketing and communications team to develop outreach materials and communication strategies to promote financial aid opportunities and resources to prospective and current students.
- Stay current on changes in federal and state financial aid regulations, policies, and best practices, and communicate updates to staff and stakeholders as needed.
- Perform additional job-related duties as assigned by the Assistant Vice President of Enrollment, contributing to the overall success of the enrollment management team.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Master’s degree preferred.
- Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in financial aid administration, with at least 2 years of supervisory experience.
- Thorough knowledge of federal and state financial aid programs, regulations, and compliance requirements, including Title IV regulations.
- Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop a team of professionals in a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills, with the ability to interact effectively with diverse stakeholders and build positive relationships.
- Demonstrated ability to think strategically, analyze data, and make data-driven decisions to achieve organizational goals and objectives.
- Proficiency in using financial aid management software, databases, and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education and a demonstrated ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends as needed for events and deadlines
Moravian University is committed to its mission to prepare individuals for reflective lives and leadership in a world of change. To achieve these ideals, they are dedicated to fostering an educational and professional environment that is enriched by individuals of different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Vision: A Moravian education is one where students learn through experiential means in order to be producers of new knowledge. Moravian students work together practicing leadership, teamwork, community support, and reflection in order to significantly contribute to a more equitable and just future society.
Moravian University offers students a private education they will not find anywhere else: personal attention and preparation for life with a record of success longer than our nation’s history. Located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania and offering undergraduate and graduate degrees that blend liberal arts with professional programs, Moravian University has been preparing students for reflective lives, fulfilling careers, and transformative leadership in a world of change since 1742. Moravian University, a master’s comprehensive university, is a member of the New American Colleges and Universities (NAC&U), a national consortium of selective, small to mid-size independent colleges and universities dedicated to the purposeful integration of liberal education, professional studies, and civic engagement. The University is also a member of the Lehigh Valley Association of Independent Colleges (LVAIC), a six college consortium in the Lehigh Valley. Visit moravian.edu to learn more about how the Moravian University focus on education for all prepares its students for life-long success.
Moravian University is being assisted by Hyatt – Fennell, Executive Search. Applications will be reviewed as they are received and should be submitted via email to Moravian@hyatt-fennell.com. Applications include a letter of interest, a current résumé/cv, and contact information for five professional references, submitted in separate documents. The position will remain open until filled. All applications and nominations will be considered highly confidential.
Moravian University aspires to be a welcoming community that embraces and values the diversity of all members of the campus community. Deep respect for others is fundamental to the Moravian University community. Moravian University does not discriminate against any person based on actual or perceived race, color, sex, religion, ancestry, genetic information, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, familial status, marital status, age, veteran status, disability, use of guide or support animals and/or mechanical aids, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. In compliance with the requirements of Title IX, Moravian University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in its educational program and activity, including employment.
Interested in this position?
Cheryl Hyatt
www.HYATT-FENNELL.com
7242420476