Strategic Growth Lead — Scholarship Services

Nelnet; Pierre (SD); Hybrid; USD 165,000 - 175,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

HSA

FSA

401(k) and matching

Paid time off

Tuition reimbursement

Wellness program

Job summary

Nelnet is seeking a Director of Strategic Growth for Scholarship Services in the Catholic education market. The role leads growth initiatives, builds high-level partnerships with dioceses and SGOs, and guides cross-functional teams to implement strategies.

The position requires a strong track record in education philanthropy, executive engagement, and market leadership, with a focus on outcomes storytelling and thought leadership.

Qualifications

• 10 years of experience in field or related field or commensurate education.
• Significant senior leadership experience in education, school choice, scholarship granting, or related nonprofit.
• Demonstrated experience leading or working closely within an SGO or comparable scholarship organization.
• Established relationships and credibility within the Catholic education community.
• Strong executive presence, with experience engaging boards, senior leaders, and external partners.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills.
• Ability to work across functions and influence without direct authority.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute growth strategy for Scholarship Services in faith-based segments.
• Identify new partnerships with dioceses, school networks, and SGOs.
• Grow and retain client relationships with defined goals and cross-functional work.
• Represent FACTS with Catholic education leaders and national school choice groups.
• Build executive relationships to open doors and trust in FACTS Scholarship Services.
• Promote FACTS at conferences, trade shows, and industry events.
• Shape impact narrative using outcomes data and client stories.
• Contribute thought leadership and presentations to position FACTS as a leader.
• Partner with Product Strategy to translate market insight into direction.
• Collaborate with Operations and IT/Engineering to support growth.
• Work with Marketing on positioning and campaigns for the segment.
• Align with BD team on priorities, pipeline, and client engagement.
• Mentor colleagues as the role evolves.

Education

Bachelor's Degree, advanced degree preferred.

Job description

Nelnet is seeking a Director of Strategic Growth for Scholarship Services in the Catholic education market. The role leads growth initiatives, builds high-level partnerships with dioceses and SGOs, and guides cross-functional teams to implement strategies.

The position requires a strong track record in education philanthropy, executive engagement, and market leadership, with a focus on outcomes storytelling and thought leadership.