Program Manager for Financial Aid & Strategic Initiatives

Winston-Salem State University; Winston-Salem, Northern (NC, KY); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Winston-Salem State University seeks a Program Manager for Financial Aid & Strategic Initiatives to lead the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid operations and ensure compliance with Title IV programs.

The role focuses on supporting access and student success through innovative financial aid strategies, including online and flexible education pathways. Strong leadership and collaboration across campus are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required.
• 7+ years of administrative/management experience in student financial aid or related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 5+ years of experience with Banner Financial Aid or comparable software.
• Experience with financial aid systems and government/regulatory compliance (FERPA, Title IV).

Responsibilities

• Assist with the overall operation of the Office of Financial Aid and monitor compliance with financial aid programs.
• Provide senior leadership in administration and strategic alignment of financial aid services for programs including Project Kitty Hawk.
• Counsel and advise students and parents on the financial aid process and collaborate with campus offices.

Skills

Administrative/management

Coordination

Communication

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field

Tools

Banner Financial Aid

PowerFAIDS

PeopleSoft

Workday Student

FAFSA Partner Portal

COD

NSLDS

Job description

Program Manager for Financial Aid & Strategic Initiatives

Our agency supports second-chance employment for individuals who were previously incarcerated, or justice-involved. We invite all potential applicants to apply for positions for Which they may be qualified.

Please Note:

• A criminal background check will be conducted on the candidate finalist prior to the offer of employment.
• If it is determined that no applicants meet the minimum competency, education, and experience requirements, then management may consider other applicants.
• Salary will be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations.
• Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completing an electronic application. The application must be completed in full detail (including work history) for your qualifications to be considered.
• Failure to complete the application completely may result in you not being considered for the vacant position.
• Your application for the position will not be completed until you receive an online confirmation number at the end of the process of applying for a position.
• If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at [e-mail]. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodation in the application and interview process, please call 336-750-2834.

Classification Information

Position Classification Title

FLSA

FLSA Exempt

Position Class

Position Class 89618

Position Overview

Join the Ramily!

Join the Ramily!

Winston-Salem State University ( WSSU ) is a distinguished institution that combines academic excellence, community engagement, and a commitment to fostering student success. We are proud to be North Carolina's only university to earn the distinguished designation of Opportunity College by the Carnegie Classifications of Higher Education and the American Council on Education ( ACE ). WSSU is dedicated to preparing students for leadership roles through rigorous programs in health sciences, business, education, and the humanities. Known for its supportive environment, the university fosters a close-knit community that nurtures both professional and academic excellence.

Situated in Winston-Salem, North Carolina—known as the city of Arts and innovation, WSSU provides students with opportunities to engage in a dynamic mix of professional, social, and cultural experiences. Winston-Salem is home to thriving arts, healthcare, and technology sectors, offering both students and faculty unique collaboration opportunities and professional development pathways.

With its beautiful campus, strong sense of community, and dedication to fostering personal and professional growth, Winston-Salem State University is an ideal place to teach, work, and learn.

Find information about our current benefits and retirement options, our holiday schedule, and other discounts and perks at the links below:

Under general supervision of the Director, Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid the incumbent will assist with the overall operation of the Office of Financial Aid monitoring compliance issues as they pertain to various financial aid programs including: Title IV, State and institutional financial aid. This position is mission critical for Financial Aid to continue to provide exemplary customer service to special populations - including health sciences, athletic, and scholars. Additionally, the incumbent will assist ensuring that policies and procedures are reviewed, updated, and followed to ensure departmental compliance with financial aid guidelines and objectives (this is primarily within the areas of the scope of the position’s responsibilities). Demonstrate thorough understanding of laws and regulations regarding student financial aid information, including FERPA. Evaluate professional judgment, Satisfactory Academic Progress appeals, requests for reconsideration, dependency overrides, return of title IV and cost of attendance adjustments. Work with other appropriate institutional departments and offices to coordinate programs. Counsel and advise students and parents on the financial assistance process. The Associate Director for Financial Aid & Strategic Initiatives provides senior-level leadership in the administration and strategic alignment of financial aid services for Project Kitty Hawk programs, transfer students, and adult learners. This position plays a critical role in advancing the institution's commitment to access, affordability, and student success by supporting innovative, flexible education pathways, including online, hybrid, accelerated, and modular program models. This position is ideal for a collaborative, forward-thinking financial aid professional who thrives in a dynamic environment and is motivated to shape scalable financial aid solutions that support institutional innovation and workforce-aligned education. Outreach and engagement is very critical. Students have an ever-widening variety of choices. Improvements processed in the practice of points of contact: postal mailings, electronic campaigns, call campaigns, and in-person assist in providing services that lead to a better student/parent experience.

Position Information

Position Number

Position Number 143411

Working Position Title

Working Position Title Program Manager for Financial Aid & Strategic Initiatives

Building and Room No.

CF Thompson Center, Room 201

Appointment Type

Appointment Type Permanent Full-Time

If Time Limited.

If Time Limited. No

Appointment Length. 12

Requirements and Preferences

Position required to work during periods of adverse weather or other emergencies

Position required to work during periods of adverse weather or other emergencies Not Mandatory

Normal Work Schedule

8:00 am – 5:00pm with flexibility schedule 8:00 am-6:00pm Monday – Friday with scheduled evening and weekend hours

Department Required Skills

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

Preferred Years Experience, Skills, Training, Education

• Prior financial aid or related management within higher education
• 1 to 2 years of experience at the director or associate director level
• In-depth knowledge of Title IV Financial Aid regulations, and understanding of financial aid awarding philosophies
• Experience applying Satisfactory Academic Progress ( SAP ) standards, including evaluation, notification, and appeals.
• Experience working with non-traditional, online, or distance education students
• Demonstrated ability to advise students in a virtual environment using phone, email, and video conferencing.
• Strong interpersonal skills (including collegiality) as well as strong oral and written communications;
• Knowledge of higher education best practices as they relate to financial aid – including general admissions, registrar, advising, financial and administration
• High analytical ability (including review, investigation, and problem solving);
• Ability to perform complex tasks and prioritize multiple projects;
• Adaptability in a dynamic, evolving environment

Required License or Certification

Valid US Driver's License

Valid US Driver's License No

Commercial Driver's License Required

Commercial Driver's License Required No

Physical Required

Physical Required No

List any other medical/drug tests required

Internal Posting Only

Internal Posting Only No

Time Limited Position

Time Limited Position No

Salary Commensurate with education and experience

Open Date

Open Date 06/23/2026

Close Date

Open Until Filled Yes