Nelnet is a diversified and innovative company committed to enriching lives through the power of service as a student loan servicer, professional services company, consumer loan originator and servicer, payments processor, renewable energy solutions, and K-12 and higher education expert. For over 40 years, Nelnet has been serving its customers, associates, and communities.

The perks of working at Nelnet go beyond our benefits package. When you join the Nelnet team, you're part of a community invested in the success of each individual. That support comes through in our work, as we are united by our mission of creating opportunities for people where they live, learn, and work.

As Director of Internal Audit, the candidate will bring best-in-class thinking to the audit function relative to risk assessment, utilization of audit technology, development of the audit process, and execution of the audit plan. The candidate selected for this position will have a proven background in audit, including information technology, financial, operational and compliance controls, ideally in a technology or financial services company. They will have exceptional business leadership skills and be able to demonstrate superior business acumen. As Director of Internal Audit, the candidate will bring best-in-class thinking to the internal audit function relative to risk assessment, utilization of automated audit tools, and the development of the audit process. The Director of Internal Audit will be an experienced internal audit leader who enjoys hands-on involvement in projects and in developing an internal audit methodology suitable to a fast-paced company.



The Director of Audit reports to the Chief Audit Executive (CAE) and is responsible for assisting the CAE in maintaining and effective internal audit function by conducting risk assessments, developing audit plans, managing relationships, and directing the Financial, Operational and Compliance Internal Audit Team.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Understand Nelnet’s objectives, risk profile, and system of internal control.
• Direct the Internal Audit Team and its activities in accordance with Nelnet’s Code of Ethics and Conduct as well as relevant professional and industry practices, such as the Institute of Internal Auditors International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing (Standards). Periodically report to the CAE on the related quality assurance and improvement plan.
• Direct the evaluation and adequacy and effectiveness of Nelnet’s governance, risk management, and internal processes designed to achieve Nelnet’s stated goals and objectives.
• Facilitate the relationships and coordinating engagements with the independent public accountants or other third-party external auditors as deemed necessary by the CAE.
• Build and maintain relationships with management to ensure independence while also providing value to and collaborating with management.
• Direct the execution of the annual independent risk assessment and development of the internal audit plan, as well as executing the internal audit plan. Monitor trends related to Nelnet’s risk profile or system of internal control and report any impacts to management and the Audit Committee(s) as appropriate.
• Work closely with management of all areas of Nelnet in assessing risk, completing independent/objective evaluations of risks and processes, recommending improvements to the associated controls and processes, and following up to ensure accurate and timely implementation of agreed upon recommendations.

• Direct the planning, execution, and follow-up associated with Audit Services’ engagements. Monitor audit engagements including the development of audit programs, audit support documentation, workpaper review, and initial drafting of the audit report to ensure compliance with applicable professional standards and frameworks, Nelnet Policies, and Audit Services Policies.
• Direct the preparation of presentations to management at the conclusion of each audit. Approve audit reports that communicate the results and are easy to understand.
• Communicate findings with clients in a timely manner, obtaining client agreement on the root cause of issues and committing to implementing recommendations.
• Follow-up and evaluate implementation of corrective actions on a timely basis, and communicate the results to management and the Audit Committees.
• Perform consulting and advisory services related to governance, risk management and control as appropriate.
• Build and manage a team of skilled, competent professionals, utilizing outside experts as necessary by coordinating the administrative functions (hiring, personnel development, ongoing performance appraisals, etc.).
• Assist Legal and Compliance on the investigation of whistleblower complaints and other matters as directed by the CAE.
• Report the impacts of resource limitations, conflicts of interest, undue influence, or non-conformance with polices or standards to the CAE.
• Attend and participate in regular Director Calls and the annual All Directors Meeting.
• Supervise staff regarding all of the duties above.

***Pay Range for this position is - $165k-$210k depending on experience

EDUCATION:
A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in accounting, information technology, management information systems, or similar field. Advanced degree preferred.

EXPERIENCE:
At least seven years of experience working in a professional environment. Progressive roles and experience in internal or external audit, quality assurance, process improvement, technology, and/or accounting desired. At least 5 years of experience managing people. Existing professional certification required (e.g., CPA, CIA, CFSA, CRMA). Exposure to the internal control systems of public companies, including information technology, data analytics, risk, compliance, financial statements to include all aspects of the financial presentation, accounting systems, tax issues, SEC filings, and SOX compliance preferred. Banking and FDICIA experience required.

COMPETENCIES – SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE/ABILITIES:
 Demonstrated ability to lead self and others and clearly communicate verbally and in writing.
 Desire to learn new concepts and think independently.
 Demonstrated ability to analyze complex data to foster critical thinking, problem solving, and decision making.
 Expert knowledge of information systems, auditing, data analytics, quality assurance and control concepts.
 Demonstrated ability to build relationships, work in teams, interact with many levels of management and external parties, and remain objective in diverse situations.
 Demonstrated ability to identify, hire, manage, and develop a diverse staff.
 Ability to travel (up to 15%).

Our benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, HSA and FSA, generous earned time off, 401K/student loan repayment, life insurance & AD&D insurance, employee assistance program, employee stock purchase program, tuition reimbursement, performance-based incentive pay, short- and long-term disability, and a robust wellness program. Click here to learn more about our benefits: LINK.

Nelnet is an Equal Opportunity Employer, complies with Executive Order 11246, and takes affirmative action to ensure that qualified applicants are employed, and that employees are treated during employment, without regard to race, color, religion/creed, national origin, gender, or sex, marital status, age, disability, use of a guide dog or service animal, sexual orientation, military/veteran status, or any other status protected by Federal or State law or local ordinance.

Nelnet is a Drug Free and Tobacco Free Workplace.