Jobs at Western

Western Washington University invites applications for the position of Manager, Student Business Office (SB0) in Business and Financial Affairs (BFA).  The Manager, SBO reports to the Assistant Director, SBO. 

The primary purpose of the Manager, SBO is to manage and coordinate the daily operations of the SBO, standing in for the Assistant Director as needed. The position ensures that billing statements, payment processes, collections, and account refunds are accurate, timely, efficient, and in compliance with University policy and applicable statutes. Also responsible for managing and directing the student loan programs at the University.

Position Responsibilities:

Responsible for direction and control of student loan program operations.  Tasks include:

• Maintain knowledge of complex Federal Perkins Loan regulations and interpreting them to establish daily operating tasks and procedures for the loan servicing function
• Monitor daily activity for the accuracy, timeliness and efficiency of loan billing and payment processes and collection practices
• Establish and lead training programs and schedules to ensure loan-servicing staff are current with regard to federal regulations and technology
• Collaborate with Financial Aid staff, other university departments and industry cohorts regarding the implementation of student loan programs
• Monitor operations to ensure compliance with the US Department of Education’s reporting requirements for Perkins Loans
• Review the federal loan credit reporting process to ensure that reporting is timely and accurate
• Prepare and maintain administrative and business reports and records and supervise student loan program staff engaged in producing such reports

Utilize analytical data and customer feedback to evaluate billing and collection processes within the SBO and determine appropriate action to ensure that:

• Students and other customers are billed timely and accurately
• State and Federal guidelines are followed and appropriate disclosure information is maintained
• Application of interest and late fees, placement of holds on student accounts are conducted in accordance with university policy and legal parameters
• Student and general receivable accounts are collected consistently and in a professional manner following due diligence guidelines

Utilize analytical data and process reviews to evaluate the payment operation within the SBO to ensure that:

• Payment is applied accurately
• Cash is being handled in accordance with University policy
• Payment operation complies with all PCI related policies and procedures; also collaborates with PCI team in developing PCI policies and procedures
• Optimal payment methods are implemented for customers

Communicate verbally and/or in writing with students, parents and the public in understanding the University’s fees and rates, any amounts due, and payment options; resolve issues and disputes.

Proactively determines appropriate timing for financial aid disbursements and collaborates with Financial Aid staff to align disbursement with the billing cycle; Schedules financial aid refunds in accordance with financial aid regulations, enhancing the frequency of refunding to meet the student population cash needs.

Accountable for the allocation of appropriate resources to various SBO units to meet customer needs. Ensure that department activities are coordinated efficiently and technologies are implemented effectively and proficiently to produce optimal program results.  Ensure Federal and State laws are applied correctly, recommend policy and establish procedures to ensure compliance.

Responsible for team supervision, including assigning workload, setting priorities and work expectations for staff. Management duties include hiring, managing, supervising and training employees; conducting performance appraisals; ensuring that work assignments are accomplished within department objectives; recommending and imposing disciplinary action. Mentor all SBO team members, providing advice and training opportunities for career development.

Establishes and maintains contracts with various vendors, backup for Assistant Director, and other duties as assigned.

• Demonstrated experience with system integration and functional administration

• Progressive operational and supervisory management experience

• Demonstrated ability to promote an inclusive and equitable work environment

• Demonstrated customer service experience in a professional environment including

dealing with difficult situations or individuals

• Demonstrated ability to analyze key performance indicators and determine appropriate

course of action

• Demonstrated ability to plan, organize, monitor and direct operational processes

• Demonstrated ability to develop collaborative relationships with a variety of organizational groups

• Demonstrated ability to apply critical thinking

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy

• Skilled in written, verbal, interpersonal communication and public speaking

• Experience working with Banner or similar student information system

• Experience working with State and Federal regulations regarding higher education

• Knowledge of Federal Student Aid regulations and practices

Starting salary range is $64,391 to $71,546 and is commensurate with experience; includes an excellent benefits package

A cover letter and resume are required and should address your experience related to the position responsibilities and the required and preferred qualifications. 

In your cover letter, please specifically address your demonstrated ability to promote an inclusive and equitable work environment.

Please include the names and contact information of three professional references.

Western Washington University (WWU) is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to assembling a diverse, broadly trained faculty and staff. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply. In compliance with applicable laws and in furtherance of its commitment to fostering an environment that welcomes and embraces diversity, WWU does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy and parenting status), disability, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status or genetic information in its programs or activities, including employment, admissions, and educational programs. See WWU’s Policy on Ensuring Equal Opportunity and Prohibiting Discrimination and Retaliation. Inquiries may be directed to the Vice Provost for Equal Opportunity and Employment Diversity, Title IX and ADA Coordinator, Equal Opportunity Office, Western Washington University, Old Main 345 (MS 9021), 516 High Street, Bellingham, WA 98225; 360.650.3307 (voice) or 711 (Washington Relay); eoo@wwu.edu

WWU is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to request an accommodation, please contact Human Resources Disability Services, 360.650.3774 or 711 (Washington Relay).

Annual Security and Fire Safety Report: This report is provided pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act ("The Clery Act"). It includes statistics for the previous three calendar years concerning reported crimes that occurred on Western's campus; in certain off-campus buildings or property owned or controlled by Western; and on public property within, or immediately adjacent to and accessible from, the campus. The report also includes institutional policies concerning campus security, such as policies concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. You can obtain a copy of this report in printed or alternate formats by contacting the office of the Vice President for enrollment and Student Services. The report can be found at http://www.wwu.edu/vpess/annualsafetyreport.shtml.

All new employees must comply with the immunization policy and show employment eligibility verification as required by the U.S. Citizen and Immigration Service before beginning work at WWU. A thorough background check will be conducted on all new hires.