Associate Director, Financial Aid & Strategy

Fairfield University; Fairfield (CT); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Fairfield University seeks an Associate Director of Financial Aid to support administration, compliance, and continuous improvement of aid operations in line with the Jesuit mission, focusing on access and student success. The role partners with the Executive Director to implement strategy, oversee core processes, and enhance systems for accurate, equitable aid delivery.

Responsibilities include leading day-to-day operations, policy development, SAP verification, and complex reporting while

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in financial aid administration.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and institutional financial aid regulations.
• Experience with financial aid systems and data management.
• Experience supervising staff or leading projects/initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Partner with the Executive Director to support strategic planning, policy development, and operational effectiveness.
• Provide leadership for day-to-day operations, including staff guidance and process improvement.
• Create and maintain office policies and procedures manual in accordance with policies.
• Oversee verification and SAP processes, ensuring accuracy and communication.
• Manage financial aid systems and technology, including enhancements and electronic processes.
• Support institutional reporting requirements (FISAP) and collaborate on data analysis.
• Prepare audit documents and liaise with auditing firms during audits.
• Advise students and families regarding aid programs and financing options.
• Collaborate with campus partners to deliver student-centered service.

Skills

Leadership

Collaboration

Team development

Communication

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Multi-tasking

Ethical practice

Student-centered service

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Net Partner

PowerFAIDS

Workday Student

NSLDS

COD

Job description

Fairfield University seeks an Associate Director of Financial Aid to support administration, compliance, and continuous improvement of aid operations in line with the Jesuit mission, focusing on access and student success. The role partners with the Executive Director to implement strategy, oversee core processes, and enhance systems for accurate, equitable aid delivery.

Responsibilities include leading day-to-day operations, policy development, SAP verification, and complex reporting while