Senior Associate, Business Operations

When you join Sallie Mae, you become a champion for all students.

We’re on a mission to power confidence as students begin their unique journey. To help them plan their higher education, successfully finish, and prepare for life after school. To help them Start smart. Learn big.

Students need guidance navigating this important time in their life. They need someone who acknowledges that their education path is unique. They need a partner willing to evolve and not only meet but surpass their expectations. We’re changing. Because students need a better way.

We’re looking for people who are excited to drive this transformation. To break barriers and think of new ways to adapt, help, and create better experiences for students—and for each other.

This is where diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and perspectives matter. It’s where you’re empowered to bring your authentic self to work.

Feeling your best allows you to do your best. Our benefits take care of the whole you—from physical and mental to financial and professional. You’ll get opportunities to further your education and career, support for you and your family (including your pets!), paid time off to volunteer for the things that matter to you, and more.

We’re obsessed with impact and making a real difference. For us, that means putting relationships first, asking “why not?” when tackling challenges, and continuously learning new skills.

Come do more than join something, change something. For students, for future generations, for the future of education.

What You'll Contribute

The Senior Associate, Business Operations will support our day-to-day operational activities. The successful candidate will work closely with the Manager of Business Operations and cross-functional teams to ensure efficient and smooth operations.
 

What You'll Do

• Support and execute various operational processes to ensure smooth business operations
• Use SQL and other analytical tools to analyze data, identify operational needs, and recommend process improvements
• Assist in the development and implementation of strategies to streamline workflow, increase productivity, and enhance operational efficiency
• Explore and apply automation and AI tools to improve workflows and reduce manual effort.
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of operational documentation, including process manuals and standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Assist in the identification and resolution of operational issues, and escalate as necessary
• Collaborate with team members to coordinate and prioritize tasks and projects
• Assist in the preparation of operational reports and presentations for management review
   

The above information is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this job; it is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees in this role.
 

What you have

Minimum: Indicate minimum education, skills and experience required.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret and analyze data to identify operational trends and opportunities
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams
• Proficiency in using business software and tools, such as Microsoft Office Suite and project management software
• Knowledge of operational processes and best practices
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities and work independently with minimal supervision
• Strong team player with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn and grow
• Bachelor’s degree in Data Analytics, Business Administration, or a related field

Preferred: Indicate “nice to haves” regarding education, skills, and experience.

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field
• 3+ years of experience in Data Analytics, Business Administration, or a related field

The Americans with Disabilities Act

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) prohibits discrimination by employers, in compensation and employment opportunities, against qualified individuals with disabilities who, with or without reasonable accommodation, can perform the “essential functions” of a job. A function may be essential for any of several reasons, including: the job exists to perform that function, the employee holding the job was hired for his/her expe