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 Executive Account Manager serves as a strategic leader and primary executive partner for Nelnet’s most complex and high-value clients, responsible for driving long-term growth, strengthening enterprise relationships, and aligning client strategies with business objectives. This role focuses on expanding partnerships across business units, leading cross-functional initiatives, and influencing both internal and client stakeholders at the executive level. Success is defined by the ability to translate client needs into actionable strategies, guide high-impact decisions, and position Nelnet as a trusted, value-driven partner while supporting overall enterprise growth and innovation.

Nelnet believes in a hybrid work environment. The standard hybrid work schedule for this position includes 24 hours of in-office work each week. This is subject to change, based on manager discretion.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as a strategic advisor to senior client stakeholders and Nelnet’s internal senior leadership, including C-suite executives.

• Create, lead, and execute comprehensive long-term growth strategies across all client-facing business units to drive revenue, retention, and innovation.
• Regularly brief senior leadership with data-driven insights, emerging client needs, and industry trends to inform executive decision-making and product roadmaps.
• Identify, initiate, and lead cross-functional initiatives that expand client value, improve service delivery, and increase partnership impact.
• Actively participate in internal strategic forums and leadership discussions, representing the voice of the client and advocating for mutual value.
• Influence and negotiate across internal teams to resolve competing priorities and align resources with client strategies and enterprise objectives.
• Own and lead high-stakes contract negotiations, renewals, and strategic planning discussions with internal legal, finance, and product partners.
• Proactively advocate for clients internally and externally, anticipating challenges, proposing solutions, and driving alignment.
• Continuously monitor client sentiment, KPIs, and business goals, and translate them into internal action plans with measurable outcomes.
• Mentor and develop junior team members, fostering cross-level collaboration and knowledge sharing.
• Support enterprise-level planning and client segmentation, ensuring top-tier accounts are receiving optimal attention and strategic investment.

Experience:

• 6+ years in strategic account or relationship management roles.

• Strong record of leading strategic partnerships and influencing high-level stakeholders.

Development Focus:

• Organizational leadership and influence without formal authority.
• Long-term planning, strategic thinking, and innovation.
• Market insights and internal advocacy on behalf of clients.
• Ability to earn a bonus for exceeding set targets.

Annual compensation range for this role is $70,000.00 - $85,000 depending on experience.

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.