Executive Director, Financial Aid Strategy & Operations

City University of New York; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 151,000 - 161,000; Full time

Job summary

The City University of New York (CUNY) is seeking an University Director of Financial Aid Strategy and Operations to lead OSFA's efforts in policy, systems, and compliance, guiding operations across 26 campuses. The role reports to the University Executive Director and oversees senior staff to ensure accurate, timely aid delivery and regulatory adherence.

As a key university leader, you will shape strategy, manage complex processes, and drive initiatives that improve access to aid while

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and eight years' related experience required.
• Advanced degree in higher education administration, public administration, business administration, or a related field.
• Progressively responsible leadership experience in financial aid administration, including supervision of staff and oversight of complex operations across multiple colleges or institutions.
• In-depth knowledge of federal Title IV and New York State financial aid programs, regulatory requirements, audits, and risk management.
• Demonstrated experience developing or influencing financial aid policy, implementing regulatory changes, and advising campus leaders.
• Experience leading financial aid systems strategy, implementations, or enhancements; familiarity with PeopleSoft Campus Solutions.
• Experience using financial aid data to inform packaging strategy, streamline operations, meet reporting requirements, and advance student access.
• Strong written and verbal communication and presentation skills; ability to guide university training and change implementation.
• Commitment to expanding student access to financial aid and improving policies, systems, and services.

Responsibilities

• Direct University-wide financial aid planning and policy implementation in partnership with the University Executive Director, establishing priorities and compliant practices across campus offices.
• Lead the development of strategies that advance student access and enrollment, including aid communications, packaging, workflows, and supporting systems.
• Provide day-to-day leadership and coordination to OSFA Deputy Directors, Associate Directors, and System Managers across programs and compliance.
• Establish and oversee compliance practices for federal Title IV and state requirements; communicate regulatory changes to campuses.
• Direct financial aid audits, program reviews, and corrective actions; advise colleges during reviews and coordinate with external agencies.
• Oversee submission of university-wide financial aid data and reporting (FISAP, NYSED, audits).
• Set priorities for systems and technology implementations with CIS and partners.
• Oversee financial aid modules and access controls for third-party systems and Ellucian tools.
• Monitor proposed legislation and policy changes; translate into operational guidance for delivery of aid services.
• Lead training for college staff on new programs and systems; represent OSFA on university committees and with external partners.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Leadership experience

Regulatory compliance

Financial aid systems

Policy development

Education

Bachelor's degree

Advanced degree in higher education administration or related field

Job description

The City University of New York (CUNY) is seeking an University Director of Financial Aid Strategy and Operations to lead OSFA's efforts in policy, systems, and compliance, guiding operations across 26 campuses. The role reports to the University Executive Director and oversees senior staff to ensure accurate, timely aid delivery and regulatory adherence.

As a key university leader, you will shape strategy, manage complex processes, and drive initiatives that improve access to aid while