Program Manager for Financial Aid & Strategic Initiatives

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.; Winston-Salem (NC); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc. is looking for a Program Manager for Financial Aid & Strategic Initiatives in Winston-Salem, NC. This permanent full-time position requires at least seven years of administrative experience in financial aid management, a Bachelor's degree, and proficiency in financial aid software.

The role involves advising students on financial aid processes, ensuring compliance with regulations, and leading strategic initiatives. Ideal candidates also have strong communication and analytical skills, with flexibility in schedule.

Qualifications

• Seven years of administrative or management experience in student financial aid or a related field.
• Five years of experience with Banner Financial Aid or comparable university financial aid software.
• Proficiency in a financial aid management system and federal systems.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Director of the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid.
• Review and update policies for compliance with financial aid guidelines.
• Advise students and parents on the financial-assistance process.
• Design and execute outreach campaigns to improve student experience.

Skills

Financial aid management

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field

Master’s degree

Tools

Banner Financial Aid

FAFSA Partner Portal

PeopleSoft

Workday Student

Job description

Position Overview

Program Manager for Financial Aid & Strategic Initiatives

Responsibilities

• Assist the Director of the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid with overall operation and compliance for Title IV, state, and institutional financial aid programs.
• Review and update policies and procedures to ensure departmental compliance with financial aid guidelines.
• Evaluate student requests for reconsideration, dependency overrides, return of Title IV aid, cost‑of‑attendance adjustments, and other regulatory matters.
• Co‑ordinate with institutional departments to align financial aid programs and provide strategic leadership for initiatives such as Project Kittyhawk, transfer student aid, and adult learner support.
• Advise students and parents on the financial‑assistance process, including virtual counseling via phone, email, and video conferencing.
• Design and execute outreach campaigns (mailing, electronic, call, in‑person) to improve student and parent experience.

Qualities and Experience – Required

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
• Seven years of administrative or management experience in student financial aid or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Five years of experience with Banner Financial Aid or comparable university financial aid software.
• Proficiency in a financial aid management system (e.g., Banner, PowerFAIDS, PeopleSoft, Workday Student) and federal systems such as the FAFSA Partner Portal, COD, and NSLDS.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree.
• Prior management experience at the director or associate‑director level.
• In‑depth knowledge of Title IV regulations and financial aid awarding philosophy.
• Experience applying Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards, including evaluation, notification, and appeals.
• Experience working with non‑traditional, online, or distance‑education students.
• Demonstrated virtual advising skills via phone, email, and video.
• Strong interpersonal, oral and written communication, analytical, and prioritization skills.
• Knowledge of higher‑education best practices in admissions, registrar, advising, finance, and administration.
• Adaptability in a dynamic, evolving environment.

Employment Details

• Title / Working Position Title: Program Manager for Financial Aid & Strategic Initiatives
• Location: CF Thompson Center, Room 201
• Appointment Type: Permanent Full‑Time
• Normal Work Schedule: Monday–Friday 8:00 am–5:00 pm; flexibility to 6:00 pm; occasional evening and weekend hours
• Salary: Commensurate with education and experience
• Open Until Filled