Faces of Nelnet: Brian Sowl, Compliance and Vendor Management

Inteviewed by Dawn Knight, Western Regional Director, Nelnet Partner Solutions

Brian Sowl: Director, Compliance & Vendor Management

What are you most proud of within your department?

Brian Sowl: I am most proud of my team being able to help non-profit organizations in the student loan industry understand and become compliant with government contracting requirements.  This education will enable many organizations to continue to support the student loan industry by partnering with the Department of Education in the Direct Lending environment.

What has been your biggest work related challenge during the past 12 months?

Brian: The biggest challenge has been learning all of the items that are now required for Nelnet to be a government contractor as well as changing from the FFELP requirements to Direct Lending requirements.

If a school were to ask you what it is you do for Nelnet that impacts them, what would you say?

Brian: My team helps Nelnet ensure that we’re protecting their borrowers’ data at all times and helps the student loan industry to evolve in the next stages of the Direct Loan program.

What are the goals of your department?

Brian: We are developing education, policies, risk assessments, and monitoring processes that will empower our associates to protect Nelnet and our customers at all times.  “Helping you protect our customers.”

If you could be anywhere in the universe for New Year’s Eve, where would you be and why?

Brian: I would be on the moon so that I could see if the fireworks and celebrations are visible from there.

What is your favorite movie snack?

Brian: Popcorn.

Name one thing that many people do not know about you.

Brian: I just completed my master’s degree in leadership development.