Director of Financial Aid Systems

Job Summary:

The Director of Financial Aid Systems is responsible for directing all aspects of the financial aid management system, external interfaces, web development and portal services to ensure efficient work flow, high-quality customer service, and compliance to federal state, and institutional regulations. Provides leadership in financial aid technology strategy, data management, and operational efficiencies to support institutional enrollment goals.

Duties & Essential Job Functions:

1. Provides strategic oversight and leadership for the financial aid management system, ensuring alignment with institutional priorities and enrollment strategies.
2. Serves as Financial Aid Functional Lead by acting as liaison with TCU’s Information Technology team as well as point of contact for financial aid systems processes, data and reporting for external departments; coordinates enhancements to online functionality.
3. Develop data-driven insights and ensure accurate financial aid reporting for federal, state, and institutional compliance.
4. Utilize technology to enhance packaging, awarding, and student communications, optimizing system capabilities to improve efficiency and the student experience.
5. Implement and manage automation strategies that streamline financial aid workflows.
6. Directs system upgrades and process improvements, ensuring seamless integration with campus technology.
7. Leads planning and strategy initiatives concerning system processes and user functionality by analyzing the current use of all financial aid systems to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.
8. Leads planning and execution of new technology initiatives that enhance financial aid processing, service delivery, and compliance.
9. Collaborates with senior enrollment management leadership and systems leads in other enrollment units to align financial aid technology with broader university objectives.
10. Manages creation of reports and survey data by providing reports needed for financial aid staff and other administrative offices; creating queries; ensuring data integrity of information reported to Federal, State and institutional entities, as well as internal and external auditors.
11. Serves as webmaster for financial aid site by maintaining integrity of hyperlinks and accuracy of information, acting as liaison with TCU webmaster and portal manager; coordinating enhancements to online functionality.
12. Provides training and guidance to financial aid staff on system usage, security, and best practices to enhance operational effectiveness.
13. Manages document imaging processes by maintaining the electronic file system and coordinating activities of data entry staff.
14. Supervises technology-related assignments and provides mentorship and guidance to financial aid staff and IT partners to ensure proper system usage and efficiency.
15. Engages in professional development and industry engagement to stay current with trends in financial aid technology and best practices.
16. Supervises staff and/or student employees/interns.
17. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Education & Experience:

• Bachelors’ degree.
• 5 plus years of experience in the administration of student management systems such as PeopleSoft, Banner, Slate, Oracle, etc.
• Experience with databases in higher education and emerging technologies.

Preferred Education & Experience:

• Higher Education experience with focus on financial aid systems.
• Project management certification or training.

Required Licensure/Certification/Specialized Training:

• None

Preferred Licensure, Certification, and/or Specialized Training:

• None

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Proficiency with PL/SQL, SQR, Slate, ImageNow, PeopleSoft SA or other related products pertaining to reporting and recruiting.
• Knowledge of customer service processes and techniques.
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office to include Word, Excel, Access databases, and Outlook.
• Skill in the use of educational ERP systems.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Ability to clearly communicate information.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends as required.

TCU Core Competencies:

University Core Competencies definitions may be found on the Human Resources website and in the staff performance management system.

Physical Requirements (With or Without Accommodations):

• Visual acuity to read information from computer screens, forms and other printed materials and information.
• Able to speak (enunciate) clearly in conversation and general communication.
• Hearing ability for verbal communication/conversation/responses via telephone, telephone systems, and face-to-face interactions.
• Manual dexterity for typing, writing, standing and reaching, flexibility, body movement for bending, crouching, walking, kneeling and prolonged sitting.
• Lifting and moving objects and equipment up to 10 lbs.

Work Environment:

• Work is indoors and sedentary and is subject to schedule changes and/or variable work hours.
• This role is an on campus, in-person position.
• There are no harmful environmental conditions present for this job.
• The noise level in this work environment is usually moderate.

Employment Values Statement:

Texas Christian University values Integrity, Engagement, Community, and Excellence in the workplace. TCU treats applicants and employees with fairness and respect. TCU hires and promotes individuals based on their qualifications and their commitment to making a positive impact on our student-centered community. TCU is an equal opportunity employer and follows all applicable employment laws. TCU fairly considers all qualified individuals, ensuring we are a workplace free from unlawful discrimination and harassment.