Director, Financial Aid

Reynolds is one of the largest community colleges in Virginia and serves Virginia’s capital city and five nearby counties. Annually, our four campus sites serve approximately 13,000 credit students and provide training for 7,400 students through the Community College Workforce Alliance. Reynolds is committed to hiring and retaining a racially diverse, culturally competent staff at all levels of the organization who reflect the demographics of our students. We also believe in providing an ongoing investment in our faculty and staff to deepen their skills and competencies to serve the full range of our student population.

The Director of Financial Aid Services at Reynolds Community College is responsible for managing and administrating student financial aid programs, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations while supporting the college’s mission to provide equitable access to higher education. Reporting to the Dean of Enrollment Services, the Director oversees the daily operations of the financial aid office, supervises a team of full-time and part-time staff, and manages the fiscal responsibilities of the office. This position requires developing and implementing policies and procedures that align with the college’s strategic goals and support student success by fostering a transparent, accessible, and effective financial aid process.

Duties and Responsibilities

● Lead the comprehensive administration of all student financial aid programs, including federal and state grants, student loans, work-study programs, and scholarships, ensuring that funds are disbursed accurately and in compliance with all regulations.

● Develop, implement, and continuously update policies, procedures, and strategies that comply with federal and state financial aid regulations. Ensure institutional practices are compliant while optimizing students' access to financial assistance.

● Oversee and manage financial aid operations in an automated environment, utilizing the latest technology to streamline processes and ensure efficient and timely delivery of services to students.

● Supervise, mentor, and develop financial aid staff, promoting a culture of continuous learning, professional growth, and exceptional customer service. Ensure staff members are well-equipped to meet evolving student and regulatory needs.

● Facilitates professional development opportunities for Financial Aid staff by supporting participation in annual Financial Aid-related conferences, managing membership enrollment, coordinating registration, and overseeing assistance with travel arrangements and expenditures.

● Coordinate and collaborate with other units within the Division, ensuring a seamless student experience and cohesive financial aid services across all departments.

● Continuously monitor and assess staff performance, providing constructive feedback and conducting performance evaluations to foster a high-performing team. Encourage staff to meet departmental goals while maintaining high efficiency and service standards.

● Lead the development and regular updating of internal financial aid policies and procedures, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and compliance. Identify areas for process improvement and implement solutions that enhance operational workflows.

● Spearhead efforts to automate financial aid processes, integrating cutting-edge technological tools to improve operational efficiency and student experience.

● Oversee the financial aid office’s budget, ensuring resources are allocated effectively and responsibly. Monitor expenditures and recommend adjustments to ensure the office operates within budgetary constraints.

● Ensure that federal, state, and institutional financial aid funds are appropriately managed, ensuring accurate disbursements, compliance with regulations, and proper reconciliation of accounts.

● Uphold and enforce the highest customer service standards in all interactions with students, faculty, administrators, and staff. Ensure that financial aid services are accessible, efficient, and supportive of students’ academic and financial needs.

● Effectively communicate complex financial aid policies, procedures, and requirements to students and other stakeholders, ensuring that information is conveyed in a clear, concise, and accessible manner.

● Respond promptly to financial aid inquiries, providing accurate, up-to-date information and guidance to students and their families regarding available financial aid options, application processes, and eligibility.

● Ensure full compliance with all federal, state, and institutional financial aid regulations. Prepare, complete, and submit all required federal and state financial aid applications and reports, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and thorough documentation.

● Collaborate closely with leaders within the Division of Student Affairs to align financial aid strategies and initiatives with the broader institutional goals and priorities.

● Work with departments outside the Division, including the Business Office, Finance, Marketing, and the Foundation, to provide coordinated and streamlined services that support students’ financial aid needs and enhance institutional effectiveness.

● Support the financial aid enrollment efforts by building relationships with high schools and community organizations in the service region. Promote awareness of financial aid opportunities, ensuring equitable access and support for students.