Student Financial Services - Executive Director

D’Youville University is excited to announce the launch of a reimagined approach to financial aid and student accounts through our new Student Financial Services (SFS) division. This innovative unit will centralize various aspects of a student’s financial relationship with the University, ensuring compliance with all state and federal regulations while enhancing the overall experience for students and their families.

Position Summary: 

The Executive Director of Student Financial Services will oversee all aspects of financial aid and student accounts/bursar operations. This pivotal role is responsible for developing strategies to enhance financial accessibility for students while ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations. The Director will lead a dedicated team, fostering a supportive environment that empowers students to achieve their educational goals. This position will supervise the Office of Financial Aid and share oversight responsibility with the CFO for Student Accounts/Bursar functions.

Responsibilities:

Leadership and Management:

• Implement industry best practices to achieve the vision for SFS.
• Commit to solutions-based leadership and strategies.
• Collaborate across divisions to foster a culture of access and service.
• Supervise, mentor, and develop staff to enhance professional growth.

Financial Aid Administration:

• Oversee federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs, ensuring compliance.
• Develop policies for awarding financial aid, including grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study programs.
• Analyze financial aid data to improve services and student outcomes.

Student Accounts Management:

• Direct operations of the student accounts/bursar office, including billing and payment processing.
• Ensure accurate invoicing, collection, and disbursement of tuition and fees.
• Implement policies for managing student accounts, including payment plans.

Customer Service and Communication:

• Foster a student-centered culture with high-quality service delivery.
• Develop and lead financial literacy programs to promote informed financial decision-making.

Collaboration and Compliance:

• Participate in Enrollment Management leadership as directed by the Chief Enrollment Officer.
• Collaborate with departments like Admissions, Registrar, and Academic Affairs to enhance the student experience.
• Stay informed about changes in financial aid regulations to ensure compliance.

Budget Management:

• Prepare and manage the annual budget for the SFS department.
• Monitor financial aid expenditures and adjust practices to maintain fiscal responsibility.

Requirements: 

• Master’s degree in Higher Education Administration, Student Affairs, Business, Finance, or a related field.
• 7-10 years of experience in higher education student finance.
• Strong knowledge of federal and state financial aid regulations.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to develop and implement strategic plans.
• Experience with data analysis and reporting.
• Familiarity with student information systems and financial aid software (preferably Colleague).

Work Remotely - No

Work Location: Buffalo, NY

Job Type: Full Time, Exempt

Pay: $89,000 - $105,000 Annually

D’Youville University is committed to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging.

Additional Salary Information

The salary range reflects our good faith and reasonable estimate of the possible compensation at the time of posting, the role and associated responsibilities, and the experience, education, and training of the selected candidate.

About D’Youville University

D’Youville is a distinguished private and research university with a rich history, located on the vibrant West Side of Buffalo, near a growing downtown area with year-round cultural events and outdoor activities. The university excels in preparing students for 21st-century careers, helping them become change agents who positively impact their communities. Under the leadership of President Lorrie Clemo, D’Youville is advancing through a dynamic planning process to enhance the university and improve the student experience.

Founded in 1908 by the Grey Nuns and named after Patron Saint Marguerite D’Youville, the university has a longstanding commitment to providing a compassionate learning environment for underrepresented populations. This tradition continues today.

D’Youville University was the first college in Western New York to offer baccalaureate degrees to women. With a strong Catholic heritage, the university welcomes students of all cultures, backgrounds, and faiths, fostering an environment where diverse faith traditions are respected. Since becoming coeducational in 1971, D’Youville has expanded opportunities for diverse learners, including adults, first-generation, low-income, and other historically underrepresented students. The urban campus community of 3,000 students offers over 50 majors in undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs, including advanced certificates and accelerated learning options. With degrees in healthcare, business, and the liberal arts, D’Youville University encourages students to integrate community service with their coursework.

D’Youville University graduates are equipped with the academic strengths and leadership skills needed to make a difference in their careers and communities. All job offers are contingent upon legal authorization to work in New York State as determined by the NYS Department of Labor. For more information, visit D’Youville’s website https://www.dyu.edu/.

D’Youville University continues to grow its commitment to Diversity, EQUITY, and Inclusion. Remaining true to the teachings of our Patroness, St. Marguerite d’Youville, we seek to selflessly and compassionately contribute to humanity by improving the lives of individuals and society through education. D’Youville University was founded to extend a hand to those in need and equip them, through education, with the skills necessary to change the world.