Senior Director of Financial Wellness - Student Financial Aid

Location:

Chicago, Illinois

Business Unit:
Rush Medical Center

Hospital:
Rush University Medical Center

Department:
Student Financial Aid

Work Type:
Full Time (Total FTE between 0.9 and 1.0)

Shift: Shift 1

Work Schedule:

8 Hr (8:00:00 AM - 4:30:00 PM)

Rush offers exceptional rewards and benefits learn more at our Rush benefits page (https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).).

Pay Range: $52.15 - $77.70 per hour

Rush salaries are determined by many factors including, but not limited to, education, job-related experience and skills, as well as internal equity and industry specific market data. The pay range for each role reflects Rush’s anticipated wage or salary reasonably expected to be offered for the position. Offers may vary depending on the circumstances of each case.

The Senior Director of Financial Wellness is the institution’s executive authority and accountable owner for student financing strategy, financial aid governance, scholarship stewardship, and financial wellness integration. As the university’s final decision owner for student financing, financial aid policy, and financial wellness strategy, the role operates in close partnership and consultation with the Vice Provost for Student Affairs. The position carries enterprise-level accountability for institutional outcomes related to enrollment sustainability, regulatory compliance, financial exposure, and equitable student access and success.

As a senior executive advisor to university leadership, the Senior Director translates complex financial aid policy, regulatory requirements, market dynamics, and funding changes into binding institutional strategy, decision frameworks, and risk mitigation actions. The role represents Rush University internally and externally as the final institutional authority on matters related to student financial aid, affordability, and financial wellness.

This role exemplifies the Rush mission, vision, and values and operates in accordance with all policies and procedures.

• Master’s degree in finance, business, higher education, public administration, or a related field.
• Extensive experience in financial aid administration with deep expertise in Title IV and regulatory compliance.
• Demonstrated senior-level leadership experience with accountability for institutional outcomes.
• Proven ability to translate complex policy, regulatory change, and market dynamics into institutional strategy and executive decision-making.
• Strong executive communication, analytical, and cross-functional leadership skills.
• Experience leading enterprise systems, data initiatives, or large-scale organizational change.

• Doctorate and/or relevant professional certifications.
• Experience leading financial wellness, affordability, or student success initiatives at scale.
• Active engagement or leadership in national financial aid or higher education organizations.

Normal physical functions are performed within a standard office environment. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with physical challenges to perform the essential functions and responsibilities.

• Strategic Leadership & Vision:
  Ability to set direction and lead institution-wide financial aid and financial wellness strategy in a complex and evolving higher education landscape.
• Financial Aid & Regulatory Expertise:
  Deep knowledge of Title IV regulations, financial aid policy, and student financing trends, with the ability to translate complexity into institutional action.
• Executive Communication & Influence:
  Exceptional ability to communicate complex financial concepts to senior leadership, faculty, and external stakeholders, and influence decision-making at the highest levels.
• Institutional Partnership &
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Proven ability to build strong, trusted relationships with colleges, enrollment leadership, advancement, and cross-functional partners to achieve shared goals.
• Data-Driven Decision Making:
  Advanced analytical skills with the ability to leverage data, financial models, and market insights to inform strategy, resource allocation, and policy development.
• Organizational Leadership & Talent Development:
  Ability to lead, develop, and scale high-performing teams, fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and student- centered service.
• Change Management & Innovation:
  Demonstrated ability to lead large-scale change initiatives (e.g., system implementations, new program models) and drive continuous…