Senior Director, Student Financial Services

Senior Director, Student Financial Services The University of Southern California (USC) seeks a strategic leader to serve as Senior Director, Student Financial Services in the Department of Financial Services – Student Financial Services. The role provides vision, leadership, and operational oversight for all aspects of Student Financial Services, including University Collections and Student Account Services. Key Responsibilities Lead a team in billing and collection of tuition and fees, managing payment plans, disbursing loans, third‑party billing, student refunds and departmental deposit functions. Oversee third‑party providers such as payment platforms and student loan servicers. Direct administrative operations through subordinate managers, supervisors and professional staff. Develop new programs and processes to enhance operations, including short‑ and long‑term plans, electronic information systems and internal policies. Manage program and project directors, oversee the development and implementation of new services. Administer personnel functions, ensuring security and confidentiality of staff records, recruitment, development and succession planning. Coordinate scheduling, meetings, events, travel arrangements, vendor selection and performance evaluation. Interpret applicable laws, rules, regulations, policies and procedures; ensure division compliance and manage necessary exceptions. Translate complex data into clear, concise reports for senior and executive leadership. Strategic Leadership & Operational Excellence Anticipate institutional needs 12–36 months in advance and align resources accordingly. Develop & implement multi‑year strategic plans aligned with senior leadership objectives. Leverage data to improve services, increase productivity and drive meaningful change. Execute process improvements, remove bottlenecks and optimize workforce deployment. Manage budgets effectively and understand the impact of student financial operations on institutional cash flow. Qualifications Minimum: Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience); five years in Student Financial Services/Bursar Operations or related area; management experience in a busy, multi‑faced department. Preferred: Master’s degree; seven years in Student Financial Services/Bursar Operations or related area; operational leadership experience; expertise in process mapping and continuous improvement; proven ability to motivate teams, foster collaboration, prepare and analyze regular reports; excellent oral and written communication skills; commitment to USC’s Unifying Values. Benefits & Compensation Annual base salary range: $160,000 to $165,000. Comprehensive benefits package supporting work–life balance and employee well‑being. Schedule & Work Arrangement Monday through Friday, 8:30am – 5:00pm. Hybrid arrangement possible after one year, contingent on business needs. USC is an equal‑opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. #J-18808-Ljbffr