Description
The Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) invites applications and nominations for our Director of Financial Aid and Scholarships position. We are seeking candidates who can contribute in meaningful ways to enhance the accessibility of higher education, fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment, and improving the recruitment and graduation of our students. The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has been ranked by Forbes as one of America’s best large employers, as recognized on the 2025 list.
The minimum starting salary for this position is $95,000. Final compensation will be determined based on the candidate’s qualifications and experience.
This is an on-campus position with some hybrid/remote work schedule flexibility.
Responsibilities
Reporting to the Assistant Vice Provost for Financial Initiatives & Chief Financial Aid Administrator (AVP), the Director of Financial Aid & Scholarships plays a critical leadership role in overseeing the internal operations of the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships (OFAS), directly supervising four associate directors, and leading a team of that manages day-to-day administration of federal, state, and institutional aid. This includes regulatory compliance, data integrity, business process improvement, and student service delivery. The Director is a transformational leader responsible for financial aid and scholarship operations, exercising significant independent authority to make decisions that support enrollment, retention, and student financial wellness. Collaborating with the AVP, Enrollment Management, and campus partners, the Director ensures alignment with institutional strategies, enhances operational effectiveness, and cultivates staff leadership to advance the university’s goals.
The Director provides transformational leadership and strategic oversight to all areas of OFAS, including data accuracy and integrity, operational efficiency, compliance with federal and state regulations, and the effective use of student financial aid systems such as OnBase, Oracle ERP & Finance solutions for federal work-study, the scholarship management platform, and Ellucian Banner. This position is responsible for comprehensive planning and execution of key initiatives, major projects, and staff management, including senior-level managers. This role facilitates coordination and communication across university departments to create a positive educational experience for students while ensuring compliance with all regulatory and institutional policies.
Requirements
Required Education and Experience:
Bachelor's degree in Higher Education Administration, College Student Personnel, or other related fields.
At least 5 years of progressive experience in administration of Title IV Federal Financial Aid, state aid, and institutional awards.
Complete at least four NASFAA Professional Credentials within one year of hire date.
3 years minimum of supervisory experience of professional staff.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment visa status.
Preferred Education and Experience:
Master's degree
At least 7 years of relevant experience including time spent in leadership role in a financial aid office.
Previous experience in financial aid administration in higher education.
Thorough understanding of federal and state financial aid rules and regulations.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Knowledge of federal, state, and institutional financial aid regulations and the ability to interpret and apply them to ensure compliance and support student success.
Skill in leading and developing staff through coaching, mentorship, and fostering an inclusive, empowered team environment.
Skill in strategic planning and operational management to enhance efficiency, effectiveness, and alignment with institutional goals.
Ability to build and maintain trusting relationships with diverse stakeholders through effective communication and collaboration.
Strengths in creating a culture of curiosity and inquisitiveness.
Ability to think innovatively and implement creative solutions to operational and service challenges.
Familiarity with Microsoft Office products (or similar).
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Ellucian Banner, Argos Reporting, OnBase, Tableau, Campus Logic, Next Generation Scholarship Manager and/or similar platforms.
Knowledge of enrollment management principles and the role of financial aid in recruitment, retention, and student success strategies.
Skill in using data analysis and technology tools to inform decision-making, improve processes, and communicate outcomes clearly to various audiences.
