Director of Strategic Growth – Scholarship Services at Nelnet

Job description

Nelnet Business Services (NBS), a division of Nelnet, Inc., provides payment technology and education services to more than 1,200 higher education institutions, nearly 12,000 K-12 schools, and millions of individual students, families, and supporters across the globe. Our culture of service enables us to form long-lasting and trusted partnerships, while our focus on creativity and innovative solutions empowers our customer communities to thrive. The Director of Strategic Growth leads growth strategy for Scholarship Services in the private-school choice markets. This leader draws on deep experience in scholarship granting organizations (SGOs) and strong relationships across the Catholic education network to expand FACTS’ presence, deepen partnerships with dioceses and school networks, and advance our impact story. The role partners closely with Business Development, Product, Operations, IT/Engineering, and Marketing to turn market insight into priorities and results. JOB RESPONSIBILITIES: Growth Strategy Develop and execute a growth strategy for Scholarship Services in the Catholic, faith-based, and private-school choice segments. Identify and pursue new partnership and growth opportunities with dioceses, school networks, and scholarship organizations. Contribute to the growth and retention of client relationships within the segment, working with defined goals and in close coordination with Business Development. Relationships and Market Presence Represent FACTS with Catholic education leaders, SGO leaders, and national school choice organizations. Build and maintain executive-level relationships that open doors and strengthen trust in the FACTS Scholarship Services offering. Serve as a visible voice for FACTS at conferences, trade shows, and industry events, in coordination with Marketing and Events. Impact and Thought Leadership Shape the impact narrative for Scholarship Services using outcomes data, client stories, and research. Contribute thought leadership, presentations, and written content that position FACTS as a leader in scholarship services. Cross-Functional Partnership Partner with Product Strategy to bring client and market insight into product direction and priorities. Collaborate with Operations and IT/Engineering to ensure growth initiatives are deliverable and well supported. Work with Marketing on positioning, messaging, and campaigns for the segment. Work closely with the Director of Business Development – Scholarship Services and the BD team to align on priorities, pipeline, and client engagement. Leadership and Operating Rhythm Contribute to planning, forecasting, and performance reviews for Scholarship Services. Provide input on pricing, packaging, and go-to-market decisions affecting the segment. Mentor and support colleagues across the business unit as the role evolves. Annual compensation range for this role is $165,000-$175,000 depending on experience. This position offers a hybrid work option. Nelnet values flexibility and understands the importance of work-life integration. Our hybrid work environment allows associates living within 30 miles of an office location to work remotely for part of the week, while also fostering collaboration and team connection through in-office presence three days per week. Please note that we are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. To be considered, candidates must already be authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future sponsorship. EDUCATION: Bachelors Degree, advanced degree preferred. EXPERIENCE: 10 years of experience in field or related field or commensurate education, and a minimum of 5-7 years supervisory or leadership experience. Significant senior leadership experience in education, school choice, scholarship granting, or a related nonprofit, philanthropic, or education financial services environment. Demonstrated experience leading or working closely within an SGO or comparable scholarship organization. Establi