DescriptionThe Executive Director of Student Financial Services (EDSFS) provides strategic leadership, policy direction, and operational oversight for the Office of Student Financial Assistance and the Office of Student Accounts. Reporting to the Vice President of Enrollment Management and as a member of the Division of Enrollment Management leadership team, the EDSFS plays a central role in advancing the College's enrollment, net tuition revenue, and student success goals through the effective, compliant, and student-centered delivery of financial aid and student account services.
The EDSFS serves as the College's chief Title IV compliance officer, Primary Federal Eligibility and Oversight Administrator, and Primary Destination Point Administrator (DPA) for or Title IV funds. This role requires balancing rigorous regulatory compliance with innovative, data-informed financial aid strategies that promote access, affordability, persistence, and timely degree completion while delivering a high-quality service experience for students and families.
The Executive Director collaborates closely with leaders in Enrollment Management and across the College including Finance, the Registrar, Academic Affairs, Institutional Research to ensure integrated, mission-aligned financial and administrative support for a diverse student body, consistent with the College's identity as The National Public Honors College.
Qualifications- Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree is preferred.
- Five (5) to seven (7) years of progressive experience in financial aid and/or student accounts administration, preferably at the director or associate level. Three (3) to five (5) years of experience supervising professional and support staff.
- Expert knowledge of federal, state, and institutional financial aid regulations, cash management, and compliance requirements (including military and veteran benefits).
- Demonstrated experience with audits, responding to findings, and implementing corrective action plans.
- Strong knowledge of accounting principles, budgeting, and fiscal reporting.
- Proficiency with federal systems (Common Origination and Disbursement (COD), National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS), Student Aid Internet Gateway (SAIG), FAA Access, FSA Partner Connect, and the E-App) and enterprise student systems.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and related productivity tools.
- Demonstrated ability to:
- Align financial aid strategy with enrollment and student success goals.
- Lead complex, compliance-driven operations.
- Build trust and collaboration across divisions.
- Communicate effectively with students, families, staff, and senior leadership.
- Strong commitment to access, equity, student advocacy, and the mission of St. Mary's College of Maryland as The National Public Honors College.
- Demonstrated success leading, developing, and mentoring diverse teams.
Any combination of acceptable education and experience, which has provided the necessary knowledge and skills to fulfill the requirements of this position, may be considered.
Employment will be contingent upon successful completion of a criminal background check. Application Instructions St. Mary's College (www.smcm.edu) embodies diversity and inclusion in its mission. We create an environment that recognizes the value of individual and group differences and we encourage inquiries from applicants who will contribute to our cultural and ethnic diversity. Application materials should include a cover letter, résumé (including e-mail address), diversity statement, and three references and submitted online at https://apply.interfolio.com/184445. Questions may be directed to David Hautanen at [redacted].
Review of resumes will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Visit our website: https://www.smcm.edu/
