Compensation Manager

Compensation Manager

At Columbia, we create a great place to work by offering a unique brand of relationship banking and fostering a culture where associates thrive. We are dedicated to supporting our customers and communities, and we can only achieve this through the dedication of our associates. We value Trust, Ownership, Growth, Empathy, Teamwork, Heart, Enjoyment, and Relationships, and we are eager to meet candidates who embody these core values. We are always on the lookout for results-focused individuals who can think independently, work collaboratively, and support our broader purpose. Think of us as financial partners, because at Columbia, we believe the best way forward is together. Together for people. Together for business. Together for better.

About the Role

Are you ready to lead compensation strategy at a company that values innovation, equity, and performance? As our HR Compensation Manager, you'll be at the forefront of designing and delivering competitive, fair, and forward-thinking compensation programs that attract and retain top talent. You'll collaborate with senior leaders, mentor a high-performing team, and ensure our rewards philosophy aligns with business goals and employee expectations.

What You'll Do

Lead Compensation Strategy : Design and manage compensation programs that drive performance, support growth, and reflect our values.

Inspire and Develop a High-Impact Team : Mentor and guide the compensation team, fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and continuous learning.

Drive Policy Innovation : Interpret and evolve compensation guidelines. Recommend enhancements that improve equity, transparency, and competitiveness.

Own Annual Planning Cycles : Lead end-to-end compensation planningincluding salary structures, merit increases, incentive awards, and equity grants.

Leverage Market Intelligence : Conduct market research and data analysis to shape salary structures and incentive plans that keep us ahead of the curve.

Ensure Compliance and Clarity : Stay ahead of regulatory changes and provide expert guidance to managers and employees on compensation matters.

Reward Performance : Oversee the distribution of bonuses, incentives, and performance-based rewards that recognize excellence.

Partner with Vendors and Stakeholders : Manage external relationships and collaborate with finance and executive leadership on strategic incentive programs.

Deliver Insights : Prepare and present compensation reports that inform decision-making at the highest levels.

Collaborate Across HR and Leadership : Be a trusted advisor to HR and business leaders, ensuring compensation strategies support organizational goals.

About You

Bachelor's degree in HR, Business Administration, or related field (required); Master's degree preferred.

10+ years of experience in compensation, financial analysis, HR analytics, or incentive design.

Professional certifications such as SPHR, CCP, or CEP (preferred).

Advanced Excel skills; proficiency in Word, PowerPoint, Access, and HRIS systems.

Strong understanding of accounting, statistics, and compensation best practices including equity management, job analysis, and federal regulations.

Proven ability to manage complex projects and make strategic recommendations.

Excellent time management skills with the ability to meet deadlines and multitask in a fast-paced environment.

Exceptional communication skillsable to present data clearly to senior and executive leadership.

Independent thinker with sound judgment and discretion. Coordinate with executive management and finance partners on administration of short and long term incentive programs.

Collaborate with HR and management : Work closely with HR and management teams to address compensation-related issues, provide strategic advice, and ensure alignment with organizational goals.

Job Location(s)

Ability to work fully onsite at posted location(s). Spokane, WA Tacoma, WA Irvine, CA Portland, OR

Our Benefits

We offer a competitive total rewards package including base wages and comprehensive benefits. The pay range for this role is $92,126.00 - $160,800.00, and the pay rate for the selected candidate is dependent upon a variety of non-discriminatory factors including, but not limited to, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience, education, and geographic location. The role may be eligible for performance-based incentive compensation, those details will be provided during the recruitment process. We offer eligible associates comprehensive healthcare coverage (medical, dental, and vision plans), a 401(k)-retirement savings plan with employer match for qualifying associate contributions, an employee assistance program, life insurance, disability insurance, tuition assistance, mental health resources, identity theft protection, legal support, auto and home insurance, pet insurance, access to an online discount marketplace, and paid vacation, sick days, volunteer days, and holidays. Benefit eligibility begins the first day of the month following the date of hire for associates who are regularly scheduled to work at least thirty hours weekly.

Our Commitment to Diversity

Columbia Bank is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to employing, engaging, and developing a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, protected veteran status, disability, or any other applicable protected status or characteristics. If you require an accommodation to complete the application or interview(s), please let us know by email.