Assistant Director Of Operations

Assistant Director Of Operations

Virginia Commonwealth University's Student Financial Management Center (SFMC) is searching for an Assistant Director of Operations. The SFMC supports VCU students through minimizing financial barriers and assisting a student body from broad and varied backgrounds with access to higher education. The SFMC is a single point of contact for students regarding financial aid opportunities, eligibility questions, educational costs, tuition and fees, and billing information. Reporting to the Associate Director of the SFMC, this position is responsible for providing managerial support services within the SFMC. This position oversees daily educational outreach, monitoring customer service, ensuring the accuracy and quality of information being delivered to customers, creating efficiencies within business practices and third-party vendor support, and financial counseling to students, parents and families. The Assistant Director serves as a second-level resource to answer and resolve unique student account situations from SFMC support staff, campus partners, and customer escalations requiring an in-depth supervisory review. In collaboration with the Director and Associate Director, they may make occasional final account decisions on behalf of the SFMC and will frequently utilize professional judgement, beyond prescribed routine policies and procedures, to carry out VCU's mission and to recruit and retain students. This role supports other VCU offices by participating in college recruiting and information events. Partnerships include VCU's Transfer Center, Office of Admissions, Summer Orientation, TRiO, and Summer Scholars. This position requires an ability to take initiative, demonstrate methodical organization, and follow through to complete all assignments effectively. Effective prioritization and the ability to anticipate future needs are critical to the success of this role.

Core Responsibilities

Professional Development and Internal Controls

• Assist with oversight of implementing internal policies and procedures to ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations. Partner with Director and Associate Director to lead efforts to continuously assess and improve operational efficiency, while facilitating staff training and professional development initiatives to foster a knowledgeable, compliant, and high-performing team

Leadership and Team Management

• Provide day-to-day supervision, mentorship, and performance management for a team of operations counselors. Promote a collaborative and inclusive work environment, set clear goals and expectations, and support staff in achieving departmental objectives aligned with the institution's mission and strategic priorities.

In-Depth College Financing Counseling

• Deliver personalized, high-level financial counseling to students and families, addressing complex financial aid and billing scenarios including but not limited to cost of attendance, financial aid eligibility, awards, and payment options. Ensure equitable access to resources and help to promote financial literacy to support student success and retention.

Student Financial Management Center Outreach

• Collaborate with SFMC leadership, campus partners, and community stakeholders to lead outreach initiatives through the Student Financial Management Center. Assist in developing and executing programming that supports financial wellness, increases awareness of aid opportunities, and builds student engagement through workshops, presentations, and individualized support.

Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer