Introduction
The Assistant Secretary of Finance and Administration is a seasoned senior administrator responsible for leading MHEC's Finance Policy and ensuring all-encompassing student- and staff-centered financial and administrative operations. The Maryland Higher Education Commission advances the State's strategic goals for higher education-ensuring affordability, accessibility, and academic excellence. MHEC sets statewide policy; administers student financial aid and capital funding; manages data systems; and partners with institutions, government, and community stakeholders to promote innovation and economic growth.
GRADE
24
LOCATION OF POSITION
217 E. Redwood St., Suite 2100 Baltimore, MD 21202
POSITION DUTIES
- Manages the Office of Finance Policy, which is responsible for:
Analyzing the fiscal and programmatic implications of higher education finance policies;
Administering State financial aid to the community colleges and the independent institutions;
Making recommendations on the appropriate level of State operating and capital support for postsecondary education;
Preparing fiscal notes on proposed legislation;
Calculating funding guidelines for public senior institutions;
Preparing annual budget estimates for State financial aid to the institutions;
Maintaining the Community College Capital Grant Program;
Conducting research on fiscal issues impacting postsecondary education;
Responding to national data requests related to finance and facility matters; and
Preparing reports on finance and facilities for the Secretary, the Commissioners, and the General Assembly.
- Manages the Office of Student Financial Assistance, which is responsible for:
Administering the State's 20 student financial aid programs, including grants, scholarships, and loan assistance repayment programs;
Recommending changes to student financial aid programs to improve the efficiency of the office, respond to customer needs, provide access for financially needy students, and address workforce shortage areas;
Working with the Governor's office and the General Assembly on legislation impacting student financial aid;
Preparing annual program budget requests for State financial aid programs; and planning and coordinating outreach activities for student financial aid.
- Manages the Office of Budget and Administration, which is responsible for:
Administering, including developing and implementing policies and procedures for, the agency budget and all programs included within the MHEC budget;
Formulating, defending and coordinating the agency budget.
Reviewing and approving all procurements for appropriateness, compliance with laws and regulations and availability of funds;
Executing RFPs, RFAs, and contracts for services performed on behalf of agency operations;
Working collaboratively with DBM Office of Personnel Services and Benefits (OPSB) to administer agency personnel programs including personnel/position actions and fringe benefits and advise the Secretary of the fiscal impact of personnel actions.
Working collaboratively with MSDE liaison to maintain oversight of the agency's facility including issues such as security, COOP Plan and risk management, capital improvements and general maintenance; and Oversee Director of Budget and Administration's role as Legislative Auditor liaison to coordinate audits, resolve audit issues and prepare formal responses.
- Manages the Office of Information Technology, which is responsible for:
Planning and directing the States Postsecondary Education Information Program for its institutions of higher education and independent postsecondary schools;
Directing, organizing, and controlling all agency on-site and off-site system applications and related functions using computer software and hardware;
Providing technology assistance to the Office of Student Financial Assistance;
Evaluating, recommending, and directing procurement of new information technology.
Coordinating the implementation of the State's Longitudinal Data System.
Instructing various officials of public, private and proprietary institutions on compliance with the State and federal program.
Responding to audits and making changes or recommend changes on the basis of audit results;
Participating as member of State's Information Technology Advisory Committee
- Provides administrative support for the Commission and its workgroups by:
Preparing and presenting reports;
Analyzing postsecondary fiscal issues;
Proposing legislation, regulations, and agency guidelines; and making recommendations on fiscal issues impacting postsecondary education.
- Representing the Secretary and the Commission by:
Serving on external task forces, committees or other entities concerned about postsecondary education issues;
Developing and providing testimony to the General Assembly;
Working closely with staff at the Department of Budget and Management and the Department of Legislative Services to ensure a cooperative and responsive relationship; and developing and preparing presentations and information for external constituents on a variety of issues.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education: Master's degree in finance, accounting, business administration, public administration, or related field.
Experience: Minimum 10 years of progressively responsible leadership in financial management, budgeting, policy development, or administrative operations, preferably within higher education or State government.
Technical Skills: Strong analytical ability; proficiency with financial systems and integrated data platforms; expertise in budget modeling and fiscal note preparation.
Leadership & Management: Demonstrated capacity to lead multi-disciplinary teams; strong project management and organizational skills.
Communication: Excellent interpersonal, written, and presentation skills, with experience conveying complex financial and policy information to diverse audiences.
DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Advanced Degree: Master's in public administration, business administration, finance, or related field.
Professional Certification: CPA, CIA, or equivalent.
Legislative/Budgetary Experience: Direct involvement in State budgeting, procurement, legislative analysis, or audit processes.
Equity & Inclusion: Track record of integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion principles into policy and operational decisions.
BENEFITS
STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS
FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS
How to Apply
Submit the following as a single PDF to with the subject line "Assistant Secretary-Finance & Administration":
1. Cover letter addressing how you meet the qualifications and your vision for MHEC finance and administration.
2. Current résumé.
3. Three professional references (including current email and phone).
Applications must be received by closing date receive priority; however, will remain open until filled.
For questions regarding this recruitment, please contact the DBM Recruitment and Examination Division at or , MD TTY Relay Service .
We thank our Veterans for their service to our country.
People with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.
As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruitment, retaining and promoting employees who are reflective of the State's diversity.
