Nelnet Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Nelnet has 9 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, technology, and finance.

Driven by a commitment to empowering educational and financial success, Nelnet delivers innovative solutions across student lending, payment technology, and telecommunications, impacting millions of lives.

Leadership Roles at Nelnet

  • Chief Executive Officer - Jeffrey Noordhoek
  • Division Chief Financial Officer, Renewables Construction - Chad Hartnett
  • Chief Operating Officer - Terry Heimes
  • President, Nelnet Business Services - DeeAnn Wenger
  • President, Nelnet Insurance Services - Thomas Massey
  • Capital Markets Chief of Staff - Elizabeth Eberle
  • Chief Technology Officer, Nelnet Business Services - Danielle Egr
  • Chief Technology Officer & Enterprise Infrastructure Architect & Software Engineer - Hugo Hernandez
  • Managing Director, Chief of Staff - Natalie Artibee
  • Jeffrey Noordhoek - Chief Executive Officer

    Jeffrey Noordhoek, the Chief Executive Officer at Nelnet, directs the company's overarching strategy and operational execution. Noordhoek guides Nelnet's expansion beyond its core student loan servicing, emphasizing its role in providing payment technology to over 1,300 higher education institutions and 11,500 K-12 schools. This leadership involves driving the delivery of fiber internet, TV, and phone services in Nebraska and Colorado, alongside developing private student loan and refinance solutions that empower borrowers. Jeffrey Noordhoek also champions the company's mission to enhance business performance through cutting-edge technology and trusted expertise, ensuring Nelnet maintains its position as a diversified financial and technology services provider. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on sustainable growth and maximizing stakeholder value across all business units.
    Jeffrey Noordhoek

    Chad Hartnett - Division Chief Financial Officer, Renewables Construction

    Chad Hartnett, the Division Chief Financial Officer, Renewables Construction at Nelnet, manages the financial strategy and operations for the company's renewables construction division. Hartnett oversees financial planning, budgeting, and investment analysis to support the growth and profitability of renewable energy projects. This role involves ensuring sound financial controls and driving fiscal responsibility within the division. The Division Chief Financial Officer, Renewables Construction plays a key part in securing financing and managing financial risks associated with complex construction projects. Chad Hartnett's financial acumen is critical to the success and expansion of Nelnet's involvement in the renewable energy sector, aligning financial performance with strategic objectives.

    Terry Heimes - Chief Operating Officer

    Terry Heimes, the Chief Operating Officer at Nelnet, oversees the day-to-day operational efficiency and service delivery across the organization. Heimes manages the complex processes involved in student loan servicing, ensuring compliance and high-quality support for borrowers. This role extends to optimizing the deployment of payment technology solutions for educational institutions, facilitating seamless transactions and administrative functions. The Chief Operating Officer also plays a critical part in the expansion of telecommunications services, coordinating the operational aspects of delivering fiber internet, TV, and phone services. Terry Heimes drives initiatives to enhance operational scalability and customer satisfaction, directly supporting Nelnet's mission to provide essential services and financial solutions.

    DeeAnn Wenger - President, Nelnet Business Services

    DeeAnn Wenger, the President, Nelnet Business Services at Nelnet, leads the strategic direction and operational management of the business services division. Wenger focuses on delivering innovative payment technology and expertise to businesses, driving performance and efficiency for clients. This leadership involves expanding the reach of Nelnet's cutting-edge technology solutions and fostering strong client relationships. The President, Nelnet Business Services ensures that the division's offerings meet evolving market needs and contribute significantly to Nelnet's overall mission. DeeAnn Wenger's leadership is instrumental in positioning Nelnet Business Services as a trusted partner for businesses seeking technological advancement and operational excellence.

    Thomas Massey - President, Nelnet Insurance Services

    Thomas Massey, the President, Nelnet Insurance Services at Nelnet, directs the strategy and operations for the insurance services division. Massey focuses on providing robust insurance solutions that complement Nelnet's broader financial services offerings. This leadership role involves developing and expanding insurance products designed to meet the needs of borrowers and partners. The President, Nelnet Insurance Services ensures the division operates with integrity and provides exceptional value to customers. Thomas Massey's oversight is critical for the growth and success of Nelnet's insurance ventures, reinforcing the company's commitment to comprehensive client support.

    Elizabeth Eberle - Capital Markets Chief of Staff

    Elizabeth Eberle, the Capital Markets Chief of Staff at Nelnet, supports strategic initiatives and operational alignment within the capital markets division. Eberle facilitates communication and execution of complex financial strategies related to student loan securitization and funding. This position involves close collaboration with internal teams and external financial partners to ensure efficient capital allocation and risk management. The Capital Markets Chief of Staff contributes to the development and implementation of financial instruments that support Nelnet's lending and servicing operations. Elizabeth Eberle's role is crucial in maintaining the financial health and strategic direction of Nelnet's capital markets activities, ensuring robust support for the company's diverse service offerings.

    Danielle Egr - Chief Technology Officer, Nelnet Business Services

    Danielle Egr, the Chief Technology Officer, Nelnet Business Services at Nelnet, directs technology strategy and innovation for the business services division. Egr oversees the development and implementation of cutting-edge technology solutions that enhance performance for businesses. This leadership involves driving the evolution of payment processing systems and digital tools that support Nelnet's diverse client base. The Chief Technology Officer, Nelnet Business Services ensures that technological advancements align with market demands and customer needs, fostering efficiency and competitive advantage. Danielle Egr's expertise is vital in leveraging technology to expand Nelnet's reach and impact within the business solutions sector.

    Hugo Hernandez - Chief Technology Officer & Enterprise Infrastructure Architect & Software Engineer

    Hugo Hernandez, the Chief Technology Officer & Enterprise Infrastructure Architect & Software Engineer at Nelnet, architects and oversees the company's core technology infrastructure and software engineering practices. Hernandez leads the design and implementation of scalable, secure, and robust enterprise systems that underpin Nelnet's diverse operations, from student loan servicing to telecommunications. This multifaceted role involves ensuring the integrity and performance of critical infrastructure, driving innovation in software development, and maintaining high standards for engineering excellence. The Chief Technology Officer & Enterprise Infrastructure Architect & Software Engineer's strategic vision is essential for supporting Nelnet's growth and its commitment to delivering world-class services. Hugo Hernandez's technical leadership ensures the foundational strength of Nelnet's technological capabilities.

    Natalie Artibee - Managing Director, Chief of Staff

    Natalie Artibee, the Managing Director, Chief of Staff at Nelnet, provides strategic support and operational coordination across key initiatives. Artibee facilitates the execution of company-wide objectives, working closely with executive leadership to ensure alignment and efficiency. This position involves managing cross-functional projects and driving process improvements to enhance overall organizational performance. The Managing Director, Chief of Staff plays a vital role in streamlining operations and supporting the strategic direction of Nelnet's diverse business units. Natalie Artibee's contributions are essential for maintaining momentum and achieving strategic goals across the enterprise.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Nelnet Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Nelnet?
    Nelnet is led by Jeffrey Noordhoek (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Chad Hartnett (Division Chief Financial Officer, Renewables Construction) and Terry Heimes (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Nelnet’s executive team?
    The executive team of Nelnet includes leaders such as Jeffrey Noordhoek (Chief Executive Officer), Chad Hartnett (Division Chief Financial Officer, Renewables Construction), Terry Heimes (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Nelnet have?
    Nelnet has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Nelnet’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Nelnet includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Division Chief Financial Officer, Renewables Construction, Chief Operating Officer, President, Nelnet Business Services, President, Nelnet Insurance Services.