Manage funds and oversee administration of financial assistance programs within the assigned unit; Manage daily operations and ensure the effective administration of assigned financial assistance programs; Assist in the design, development, and modification of financial assistance programs; conduct assessments to support program improvement; Provide timely and accurate financial aid information to students, families, and institutional partners; Supervise the verification of eligibility documentation and maintain accurate program records; Maintain current knowledge of relevant statutory requirements, regulations, policies, procedures, and technological systems; Contribute to policy development and provide legislative and statistical analysis for internal and external stakeholders, including the Department of Legislative Services (DLS) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM); Monitor compliance of assigned programs with state laws and internal policies; Analyze audit findings and recommend corrective actions in coordination with agency leadership and legal counsel; Collaborate with the Associate Directors of Operations and Systems as well as other OSFA staff to ensure MDCAPS operations align with program requirements and regulations; Provide leadership and support to staff; develop procedures, facilitate training, and implement continuous process improvements; Assist the Executive Director with special projects, including Managing for Results (MFR) submissions, Joint Chairmenâs Reports (JCR), and participation in workgroups and task forces; Serve as a liaison to internal units, external agencies, and community organizations; Prepare reports, publications, and other communication materials as required; Perform additional duties as assigned by the Director or the Secretary of Higher Education; and. The program manager also serves as a subject matter lead for the state financial aid programs administered within the designated unit and is responsible for ensuring that such programs are administered effectively and within the parameters of Commission policies and regulations.