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.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Nelnet Bank serves as the strategic and operational leader. Reporting to the Board of Directors and the President of Nelnet Financial Services, the CEO is accountable for the overall success, integrity, and resilience of the Bank’s operations and reputation. This role requires exceptional judgment, financial acumen, and leadership capabilities, as well as the ability to build trust, inspire high performance, and work collaboratively.

Primary Attributes:

• Lead and recruit high performing bank officers

• High level of financial competency with a fundamental understanding of bank balance sheet and spread economics

• Experience in growing financial institutions

• Effective team player, working closely with Nelnet, Inc. and other key partners

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Vision

• Lead the development, communication, and execution of the Bank’s strategic direction in collaboration with the Board and senior leadership.

• Align the organization with long-term business goals, innovation, and resilience in strategy execution.

• Promote the growth of the Bank’s business lines and customer base in accordance with strategic objectives.

• Demonstrate vision and creativity in the development of funding strategies and asset generation initiatives.

Operational Excellence

• Oversee daily operations while promoting accountability, transparency, and performance.

• Foster an efficient, service-oriented infrastructure that supports innovation.

• Ensures Nelnet Bank maintains adequate capital, funding, and liquidity to meet its strategic priorities.

Risk Management & Compliance

• Champions a robust risk management culture that proactively addresses reputational, financial, cyber, compliance, and credit risks.

• Ensure compliance with banking regulations and maintain high standards of ethics and internal control.

• Oversee the implementation of policies within risk appetite levels and ensure awareness of compliance obligations across the organization.

Financial Stewardship

• Provide sound financial leadership, ensuring fiscal responsibility, sustainability, and effective stewardship.

• Accountable for financial performance and budget management.

• Drives the bank to optimize net spread, gap assessment and risk, and returns by asset class.

Board Engagement

• Advise and consult the Board on strategic, operational, and policy matters.

• Provide clear, timely, and transparent information to support Board oversight.

Legislative & Regulatory Advocacy

• Engage constructively with regulators and legislative stakeholders to represent the interests of Nelnet Bank.

• Monitor regulatory trends and developments, shaping responses that align with organizational goals.

Competencies (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities):

• An extensive background in consumer lending. Commercial or Real Estate lending experience is desired.

• Demonstrated financial leadership and deep understanding of complex financial markets.

• Proven ability to scale operations, drive performance, and lead through change.

• Entrepreneurial approach to growth in deposits, lending, and service innovation.

• Extensive experience in regulatory environments, governance, and risk management.

• Strong stakeholder management skills, including experience working with boards, regulators, and government officials.

• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to influence and advocate effectively across diverse audiences.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills; ability to communicate effectively and project a professional image.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities while leading team members and working across the organization with colleagues to achieve results.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with ability to achieve goals.

• Demonstrated product development acumen and technology management or leadership.

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, or other related field. Advanced degree and certifications a plus.

EXPERIENCE:

• 20+ years broad based consumer and commercial banking experience. Experience in holding senior executive leadership positions. Extensive experience operating in a highly regulated environment with direct experience interacting with regulators and boards.

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 committed to providing a welcoming and respectful workplace where all associates have the opportunity to succeed. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we ensure that all qualified applicants are considered for employment. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion/creed, national origin, gender, 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, state, or local law. We value the unique contributions of every team member and believe that a positive work environment benefits everyone.

Qualified individuals with disabilities who require reasonable accommodations in order to apply or compete for positions at Nelnet may request such accommodations by contacting Corporate Recruiting at 402-486-5725 or corporaterecruiting@nelnet.net.

Nelnet is a Drug Free and Tobacco Free Workplace.