Director, Business Operations

Nelnet•Lincoln, NE

2d•$200,000 - $225,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Director, Business Operations sets the strategy and operating model for a business function or portfolio, translating organizational priorities into scalable processes, systems, and measurable outcomes. The role leads cross-functional planning, operational performance, and continuous improvement while ensuring teams have the data, tools, and governance needed to execute effectively. The director builds organizational capability, guides complex initiatives, and develops leaders to support sustainable growth and business performance. Nelnet Business Services (NBS), a division of Nelnet, Inc., provides payment technology and education services to higher education institutions, K-12 schools, and individual students, families, and supporters worldwide. The position offers a hybrid work option for associates living within 30 miles of an office location, with remote work part of the week and in-office presence three days per week. Candidates must already be authorized to work in the United States without current or future visa sponsorship.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in business administration, operations, information systems, engineering, finance, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
At least 8 years of progressive experience in business operations, strategy and operations, product operations, program leadership, or a related discipline.
Experience defining functional strategy and leading complex, high-risk, cross-functional initiatives with organization-level impact.
Demonstrated success designing and scaling operating processes, business systems, analytics, or automation with measurable results.
Experience leading people, developing talent, and managing work through changing priorities and ambiguity.
Experience influencing executive and cross-functional stakeholders and translating strategic goals into clear execution plans.
Strategic planning and execution skills.
Business process modeling and optimization skills.
Cross-functional leadership skills.
System implementation and integration skills.
Influence and executive presence.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in business administration, operations, strategy, or a related field.
Experience supporting transformation, integration, new business development, or operations in a technology-enabled or multi-business environment.

Responsibilities

Lead the development and execution of business operations strategy, priorities, roadmaps, and performance measures aligned with organizational objectives.
Design and continuously improve scalable operating models, governance, workflows, and decision-making processes across functions.
Oversee the evaluation, implementation, integration, and adoption of business systems, data capabilities, and automation solutions.
Establish reliable reporting and analytics that give leaders visibility into operational performance, capacity, risk, and opportunities.
Lead portfolio planning and prioritization for complex, cross-functional initiatives, balancing strategic value, resources, dependencies, and delivery risk.
Direct business process optimization efforts that improve quality, speed, customer outcomes, and cost effectiveness.
Assess new business opportunities and strategic initiatives through research, market analysis, financial and operational evaluation, and implementation planning.
Build partnerships with executive leaders, functional teams, technology partners, and external stakeholders to align priorities and deliver outcomes.
Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing team, setting clear expectations and adapting resources as business needs change.
Identify and manage operational risks, change impacts, and compliance considerations while promoting accountability and continuous improvement.