Director, Financial Aid

Director of Financial Aid

Description

At Chattanooga College MDTC, the Director of Financial Aid will lead our strategy of “Where a small school can make a BIG difference!!”. This leadership role is responsible for the strategic direction, administration, and management of all financial aid programs to support student success through financial literacy and equitable access to aid.

The Director oversees the Financial Aid Department, ensuring that the team provides accurate guidance and personalized counseling to a diverse population of students and families. You will be responsible for interpreting complex federal, state, and institutional regulations and ensuring the institution remains in full compliance with accreditation standards and federal laws, such as FERPA.

The ideal candidate is a visionary leader with a strong commitment to equity and access for underrepresented or at-risk populations. You must be able to thrive in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple high-level priorities, and maintain a professional, approachable demeanor while navigating the needs of stressed or confused stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Implements and oversees institutional and departmental strategic priorities related to retention, enrollment, and compliance.
• Departmental Management: Leads and collaborates with Department Leadership and staff to ensure the delivery of high-quality financial aid counseling and support.
• Compliance Oversight: Serves as the primary authority on federal, state, and institutional regulations; maintains accurate documentation to ensure compliance with accreditation and federal requirements.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partners with admissions, the bursar, and other departments to increase student engagement and retention, particularly for at-risk populations.
• Operational Efficiency: Implements technological solutions and systems to promote efficiency and improve student access to aid.
• Outreach & Education: Oversees the planning and coordination of financial aid workshops, outreach activities, and institutional events.
• Fiscal Accountability: Monitors student account balances and manages the allocation of grants, scholarships, and loans.
• Professional Development: Ensures the department remains current on emerging best practices, research, and regulatory changes through annual training.
• Student Support: Provides high-level intervention for complex financial aid cases and appropriate referrals for personal or academic concerns impairing student success.

• Advanced Leadership: Proven ability to lead a team and establish effective working relationships with faculty, staff, and external partners.
• Regulatory Expertise: Extensive knowledge of federal and state financial aid regulations and the ability to interpret complex policies.
• Communication Mastery: Exceptional interpersonal, written, and public presentation skills.
• Technical Proficiency: Ability to manage student information systems, Microsoft Office, and other financial aid platforms.
• Detail-Oriented & Approachable: Maintains a demeanor that is both professional and accessible to students and colleagues.

Education or Training:

• Required: Bachelor’s degree in finance, business, education, or a related field.
• Preferred: Master’s degree in Higher Education Administration, Finance, or a related field.

• Required: A minimum of 5–7 years of experience in financial aid or student services, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Preferred Knowledge: Expert-level familiarity with financial aid management systems and a deep understanding of Title IV compliance.

Please submit a 2–5 minute video response summarizing your qualifications, interest in the position, and the reason you feel you would be the right fit for this leadership role to [email protected].

Applications that do not include the required video materials will not be reviewed.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Chattanooga College MDTC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.

Chattanooga College MDTC encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences and is dedicated to providing equal access to employment opportunities.