What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Bursar position at Howard University and Careers?
The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission.
At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.
Here is what we offer:
- Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
- Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
- Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
- Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
- Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture
Join Howard University and thrive with us!
https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness
BASIC FUNCTION:
The Office of the Bursar at Howard University seeks an experienced and strategic Assistant Bursar to lead cross-functional business process improvement, systems optimization, and strategic student financial initiatives. This senior leadership position serves as a key advisor to the AVP for Finance and University Bursar, ensuring that student financial operations, programs and initiatives are optimal, efficient, student-centered, and aligned with University goals for financial sustainability, compliance, and student success.
NATURE AND SCOPE:
The Assistant Bursar will provide leadership in evaluating and optimizing student financial business processes and systems, partner with the Director of Student Account Operations in spearheading the stabilization and enhancement of Workday Student Financials, build strong partnerships with Enrollment Management, Registrar, Financial Aid, IT, and Student Affairs to ensure coordinated delivery of financial services, and represent the Office of the Bursar in high-level cross-functional initiatives.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:
Leadership & Representation
- Support and represent the AVP for Finance and University Bursar in cross-functional committees, working groups, and University forums.
- Provide strategic leadership in student financial services, with a focus on analysis, process improvement, and service excellence.
- Manage and mentor staff to support functional analysis, process mapping, and system optimization.
Business Process Analysis & Strategy
- Lead evaluation and improvement of student financial processes to enhance efficiency, compliance, and the student experience.
- Align business processes and initiatives with institutional goals for enrollment, retention, and financial performance.
- Translate strategic objectives into actionable business requirements and process improvements.
Systems & Data Optimization
- Partner with the Director of Student Account Operations in the optimization of the Workday Student financial modules, ensuring functionality enhances student user experience and success and strengthens receivables and student account management.
- Collaborate with IT and campus partners to address system gaps, refine workflows, and enhance usability.
- Leverage data analytics and reporting to inform decision-making and track progress toward financial and operational goals.
Strengthen Receivables Outcomes and Performance
- Partner with the AVP to design and implement strategies that strengthen receivables management, reduce bad debt, and improve cash flow.
- Lead and engage in cross-unit and cross-functional initiatives focused on student financial access and affordability, student success, and financial outreach to students and sponsors.
- Remain up to date with external agencies, such as NACUBO, for benchmarking, performance management, and compliance
Stakeholder Engagement & Change Management
- Build strong partnerships with Enrollment Management, Registrar, Financial Aid, IT, and Student Affairs to ensure coordinated delivery of financial services.
- Lead change management and training efforts to help staff adopt improved processes and new system functionality.
- Communicate
CORE COMPETENCIES:
- Strategic and Analytical Leadership
- Business Process Optimization
- Student Financial Systems Expertise (Workday Student)
- Financial Acumen and Modeling
- Cross-Functional Collaboration and Influence
- Change Management and Organizational Leadership
- Policy Development and Compliance Management
- Executive-Level Communication and Reporting
- Student-Centered Operational Approach
- Project Management Excellence
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelor’s degree in business administration, finance, accounting, or related field.
- Minimum of 5–7 years of progressively responsible experience in student financial services, bursar operations, higher education finance, or related field
- Demonstrated leadership in functional/business analysis, process improvement, or systems optimization.
- Experience with ERP/SIS platforms; Workday Student strongly preferred.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills with proven ability to influence cross-functional teams
Compliance Salary Range Disclosure
Expected Salary Range: $105,000- $115,000
Salary : $105,000 - $115,000