Director of Benefits
We are seeking a highly skilled and strategic Director of Benefits to lead and evolve the design, implementation, and management of our organization's comprehensive benefits and retirement programs. This role owns the benefits strategy and execution, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and full compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. The ideal candidate is a thought leader with a proven track record in health benefits management, deep expertise in retirement plan administration (401(k), non-qualified, and pension), and a passion for driving innovative solutions that enhance employee engagement, experience, and financial wellness.
Essential Functions
- Strategy & Leadership
- Develop and execute benefits strategies that support organizational goals and employee needs.
- Partner with HR leadership and executive teams to set plan design and direction for health, welfare, and retirement benefits.
- Lead and mentor a team of HR professionals, fostering growth and development.
- Benefits Administration
- Oversee the design, implementation, communication, and administration of health and welfare programs, including COBRA and wellness initiatives.
- Oversee the management and ensure full compliance in the administration of the organization's leave programs, including but not limited to ADA, FMLA, Disability, and Workers' Compensation.
- Manage qualified and non-qualified 401(k) plans and defined benefit pension plans, ensuring regulatory compliance.
- Wellness & Engagement
- Design and implement strategic wellness programs to improve employee health, engagement, and cost containment.
- Monitor market trends and best practices to continuously enhance wellness offerings.
- Compliance & Vendor Management
- Ensure compliance with all federal and state regulations (ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, ACA, IRS, DOL), including non-discrimination testing and federal filings.
- Direct vendor management and contract negotiations to optimize service and cost efficiency.
- Program Innovation
- Lead the evolution of our benefits portfolio, introducing progressive, inclusive, and relevant offerings that support the whole person.
- Conduct annual benchmarking and participate in industry surveys to identify alternative benefit options and prepare recommendations for senior leadership.
- Analyze program effectiveness and develop strategies to enhance impact and employee experience.
Other Duties
Oversee analysis and reporting related to benefits utilization.Lead other related projects as assigned.Education / Experience
Bachelor's Degree. Master's Degree or professional certifications (e.g., CEBS, SPHR, CRPS, or CFP) preferred but not required. Preferred Experience Level (if different from minimum required) : 12+ years of experience in benefits administration, with a strong focus on strategic benefit design and implementation. 10 or more years experience.
Job Related Skills
In-depth knowledge of ERISA, ACA, FMLA, HIPAA, COBRA as well as IRS and DOL regulations governing retirement and health plans.Proven ability to develop and execute strategic benefits programs that balance organizational goals and employee needs.Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to influence and collaborate across all levels of an organization.Experience managing vendor relationships and negotiating contracts to ensure optimal service and cost efficiency.Our Comprehensive Benefits Package
Flexible work solutions including remote options, hybrid work schedules, competitive pay, paid time off including holidays and volunteer events, health insurance coverage for you and your dependents on Day 1, 401(k), tuition reimbursement and more. As a company, we support internal diversity through : Recruiting. We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, race, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or disability. Our inclusive, equitable approach to recruiting and hiring reinforces our commitment to DEI.