Manager, Business Process Optimization

Nelnet Business Services (NBS), a division of Nelnet, Inc., provides payment technology, education services, and learning management solutions to education and faith-based organizations, serving more than 1,300 higher education institutions, 11,500 K-12 schools, 3,500 churches, 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.

 

As a Nelnet company, the perks at NBS go beyond our benefits package. You’re part of a community, invested in you as an individual and united by our mission to create opportunities for people where they live, learn and work.

This role leads a team focused on identifying and executing high-impact process improvements across the organization. It partners with executives and stakeholders to prioritize initiatives, align cross-functional resources, and drive measurable performance gains. As a working manager, this role ensures hands-on leadership by actively contributing to the design and development of technical solutions, maintaining deep technical engagement while guiding the team toward strategic outcomes and continuous improvement.
The Manager plays a pivotal role in integrating advanced technologies—including artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and automation—into process redesign efforts. By aligning cross-functional resources and tracking performance metrics, the Manager ensures that optimization initiatives deliver measurable value and support the organization’s broader AI Strategy.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead the Business Process Optimization team, setting strategic direction and managing day-to-day operations.

• Engage with senior executives and stakeholders to identify and prioritize high-impact process improvement opportunities.

• Oversee intake, evaluation, and execution of optimization initiatives across business units.

• Coordinate cross-functional teams and ensure alignment with stakeholders throughout project lifecycles.

• Guide the integration of automation technologies into process improvement strategies.

• Contribute directly to the design, development, and deployment of automation solutions.

• Track and report on performance metrics, team effectiveness, and initiative outcomes.

• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and operational excellence.

• Provide thought leadership on industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies.

• Mentor team members and support their professional development.

**Pay Range for this role is - $110,000 - $130,000

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field is preferred.

• Equivalent experience (minimum 4 years) will be considered in lieu of a degree.

EXPERIENCE:

• 5+ years of experience in business process improvement, operations strategy, or a related field.

• 3+ years of development experience in a high-level programming language.

• Experience supervising and directing the design, development, and deployment of automation solutions.

• Proven track record of leading cross-functional initiatives and delivering measurable business outcomes.

• Familiarity with automation technologies and their application in business operations.

• Experience with Python and Microsoft Power Automate is highly preferred.

COMPETENCIES – SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE/ABILITIES:

• Strategic thinking and the ability to translate vision into actionable plans.

• Strong leadership and team management skills, with experience guiding high-performing teams.

• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, including executive-level interaction.

• Proficiency in process mapping, root cause analysis, and performance tracking.

• Comprehensive knowledge of automation tools, platforms, and best practices.

• Expert programming and critical thinking skills, with a demonstrated track record in process automation and optimization.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and drive results in a fast-paced environment.

• Commitment to continuous improvement and fostering a culture of innovation.

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.