KGSP Students Operations Lead

Job Purpose

The KGSP Students Operations Lead is responsible for the comprehensive management of the program's financial operations, budgeting, and student information systems. This role ensures the accurate and timely processing of all students financial matters, manages program budgets and reconciliation, and oversees the integrity and effective use of the student data management system. The position serves as a key liaison to VPAA central operation, third-party vendors, and university partners to ensure seamless operational support for all KGSP students.

Major Accountabilities

• Process and manage all student financial matters, including monthly allowances, deductions, and reimbursements.


• Review and update KGSP location allowances as per student university locations and enrichment assignments.


• Handle all payments to third parties, such as university tuition and insurance providers.


• Develop quarterly and annual program budgets, and provide monthly "Actuals vs. Budget" reconciliation reports.


• Develop financial forecasts and models to support strategic planning and decision-making for program leadership.


• Manage the central student information system for data management, document storage, and communication.


• Generate all required programmatic reports (e.g., Critical Issues, Master Student Data, Attendance) for management.


• Act as the primary operational liaison between the KGSP program, VPAA central operations, and external vendors.


• Continuously review and improve financial and data management processes to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and student experience.


• Ensure all program financial activities and student data management comply with KAUST policies and relevant regulations.

Person Requirement

Competencies

• Financial Acumen: Advanced skills in budget management, financial reconciliation, and forecasting.


• Data & Systems Management: Proficiency in managing databases or student information systems, with a strong focus on data integrity.


• Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze complex financial and programmatic data and produce clear, actionable reports.


• Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to handling financial transactions and data entry.


• Stakeholder Management: Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with students, internal departments, and external university partners.


• Problem-Solving: Proactive in identifying and resolving financial discrepancies, system issues, and operational bottlenecks.


• Process Improvement: A continuous improvement mindset to streamline and optimize program operations.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, Information Systems, or a related field.


• A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field combined with significant equivalent professional experience may be considered.

Experience

• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in program operations, financial management, preferably within an academic or international scholarship program.


• Demonstrated experience in developing and managing complex budgets and financial reporting.


• Proven expertise in managing information systems, databases, or CRM platforms for data management and reporting.


• Experience handling confidential student and financial data with a high degree of integrity and discretion.


• Experience in a higher education or international program environment is highly desirable.