Executive Director - Student Financial Services

Houston Christian University; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Houston Christian University is seeking an Executive Director for Student Financial Services to lead financial aid, student accounts, and the customer service center. The role focuses on strategic vision, operational excellence, and student-centered service across all SFS activities.

The ideal candidate will ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, drive data-driven improvements, and collaborate with campus partners to enhance the student experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field is required; a master's degree is preferred.
• Seven years of related experience, preferably leading a primary department in higher education.
• Strong knowledge of federal and state regulations related to financial aid and student accounts.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with students, parents, and colleagues.
• Demonstrated leadership and management skills with the ability to motivate and supervise staff.
• Ability to work independently and in a team with strong organizational and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily operations of financial aid and student accounts departments, including staff supervision and resource allocation.
• Oversee development, implementation, and administration of the SFS customer service center.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve efficiency and business processes.
• Collaborate with other university departments to streamline the student experience.
• Maintain compliance with federal and state regulations related to financial aid and student accounts.
• Lead the development of technology-driven solutions to improve processing and customer service.
• Establish and track KPIs for processing times, student satisfaction, and compliance.

Skills

Communication skills

Leadership

Teamwork

Organizational skills

Problem solving

Microsoft Office

Ellucian Banner

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Ellucian Banner

Microsoft Office

Job description

Reports to: Associate Vice President of Financial Operations

Job Status: Exempt

Position Summary

Houston Christian University (HCU) seeks a dynamic and experienced leader to serve as the Executive Director for Student Financial Services (SFS). The successful candidate will oversee and direct all aspects of financial aid, student accounts, and the SFS customer service center. This role will also be responsible for developing and executing a strategic vision to enhance student financial services, ensuring an efficient and student-centered approach.

Job Responsibilities:

• Manage the daily operations of the financial aid and student accounts departments, including the supervision of staff and the allocation of resources.
• Oversee the development, implementation, and administration of the SFS customer service center.
• Develop and implement strategies to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of business processes.
• Work closely with other university departments to streamline and simplify the student experience.
• Maintain a comprehensive understanding of all federal and state regulations related to financial aid and student accounts and ensure that the university complies with all requirements.
• Develop and implement strategies to ensure compliance with financial aid regulations, minimize errors in student account management, and reduce financial risks to the university.
• Lead the development and implementation of technology-driven solutions to improve financial aid processing, student account management, and customer service efficiency.
• Establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate success in financial aid processing times, student satisfaction, and compliance adherence.
• Partner with data owners to leverage data to analyze trends, create student dashboards, and provide performance reports.
• Collaborate with federal and state agencies, loan providers, and scholarship organizations to expand financial aid opportunities and external funding sources for students.
• Provide training and professional development opportunities for department staff and ensure they are equipped to provide high-quality service to students and their families.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a related field; a master's degree is preferred.
• At least seven years of related experience, preferably leading a primary department (financial aid, student accounts, or integrated customer service in higher education.)
• Strong knowledge of federal and state regulations related to financial aid and student accounts.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with students, parents, and colleagues.
• Demonstrated leadership and management skills, with the ability to motivate and supervise staff.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with excellent organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Strong computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and experience with Ellucian Banner preferred.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Houston Christian University.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift or move objects up to 25 lbs. – occasionally
• Ability to sit – frequently
• Ability to stand for an extended period – occasionally
• Ability to walk reasonable distances – occasionally
• Ability to bend or stoop – occasionally
• Ability to climb or reach overhead – occasionally
• Ability to communicate via speech, hearing and sight – frequently

Additional Information:

Houston Christian University is an independent, private Christian liberal arts institution with a diverse student body. It has access to all the cultural advantages of one of the largest metropolitan centers in the country. For more information about the University, visit hc.edu .

The University has implemented its Ten Pillars vision ( hc.edu/vision ) and anticipates significant growth in student enrollment and university programs. The successful candidate will also be able to articulate a vision for the role of his or her discipline at HCU that is supportive of the Ten Pillars vision statement.

Houston Christian University is committed to maintaining a teaching faculty and staff who share an active Christian faith. The Preamble to the By-Laws of the University sets forth a statement of belief which each University employee is expected to support and personify. Your submittal of an application for employment indicates your acceptance and affirmation of these statements.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and requirements of personnel.