Executive Director of Operations - Financial Assistance Services

Compensation: $100,009.21 - $121,261.16

Pay Grade: 121

FLSA Status: Exempt

Salary Admin Plan: A&P (annual contract)

At St. Petersburg College, we are committed to empowering students to achieve their academic goals by removing barriers to education. Our Financial Assistance Services department plays a pivotal role in this mission, leveraging innovative technology and streamlined processes to provide students with access to critical financial aid resources. To support our vision, SPC seeks a dynamic and experienced Executive Director of Operations to oversee the operational functions of our Financial Assistance Services department and lead a team dedicated to excellence.

Position Summary

The Executive Director of Operations reports to the Associate Vice President of Financial Aid and is responsible for managing the operations division of the Financial Aid Office. This includes oversight of the following teams:

• PeopleSoft Operations
• Verification and C-Flag Processing
• Imaging and Document Management
• State Program Administration
• Return of Title IV (R2T4) Compliance

The Executive Director will lead a team of three Assistant Directors and their respective staff, ensuring operational efficiency and compliance with all federal and state financial aid regulations. Additionally, this role oversees IT solutions within the office and collaborates with other student affairs offices to improve processes and systems collegewide.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and strategic direction for operational teams within Financial Assistance Services.
• Oversee the configuration, testing, analysis, and implementation of upgrades or customizations to the PeopleSoft Student Administrative System.
• Ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, including completion of key annual reports such as the FISAP, GE/FVT, and PPA.
• Serve as the primary data access administrator for federal databases and systems.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to identify and implement process improvements that enhance the student experience.
• Lead the operational implementation of new policies, technologies, and initiatives.
• Foster a culture of innovation, inclusivity, and excellence across the department.

Education:

Bachelor's degree in a related field to assigned area. Some positions may require higher level of education.

Experience:

Five (5) years of management experience in assigned area.

* An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job may be acceptable in lieu of those requirements listed above.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will demonstrate the following qualifications:

• Experience:
  • A minimum of 10+ years of progressive experience in financial aid operations.
  • At least 5 years of supervisory experience, preferably leading a campus financial aid office or operations division.
• Technical Expertise:
  • Strong background in PeopleSoft Campus Solutions, including system setup, testing, and customization.
  • Familiarity with federal and state reporting requirements and systems.
• Skills and Attributes:
  • Exceptional organizational and critical thinking skills.
  • Strong interpersonal, communication, and customer service abilities.
  • Innovative, enthusiastic, and adept at solving complex problems.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and interact with diverse populations.
  • Commitment to teamwork and cross-departmental collaboration.

Why Join SPC?

At St. Petersburg College, we value creativity, dedication, and a shared commitment to student success. By joining our team, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of our students and contribute to the innovative delivery of financial aid services.