Senior Associate, Business Operations Analysis

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.

The Senior Associate, Business Operations Analysis will support the Business Operations team by leveraging data, analytics, and process improvement methodologies to drive operational effectiveness. This role will partner closely with the Manager of Business Operations and cross-functional stakeholders to analyze business performance, identify trends and opportunities, improve processes, and support strategic decision-making across the organization.

• Analyze operational data and business metrics to identify trends, risks, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement.
• Utilize SQL and other analytical tools to extract, validate, and interpret data, translating findings into actionable business insights.
• Develop and maintain operational dashboards, reports, and performance metrics to support business decision-making.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to evaluate business processes and recommend data-driven solutions that improve efficiency and effectiveness.
• Assist in the development and implementation of operational strategies, process enhancements, and workflow optimization initiatives.
• Explore and apply automation, AI, and technology solutions to streamline operations and reduce manual effort.
• Support root cause analysis and problem-solving efforts related to operational challenges and performance gaps.
• Contribute to forecasting, capacity planning, and operational reporting activities as needed.
• Create and maintain operational documentation, process maps, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and reporting methodologies.
• Prepare presentations and analytical summaries that communicate key findings, recommendations, and business impacts to leadership.

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.

• Strong SQL, 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…