Manager, Benefits & Wellbeing

Description

Position at CMI Media Group

We are seeking a highly strategic and hands-on Manager, Benefits & Wellbeing to lead the evolution of our comprehensive employee benefits programs. This critical role serves as our organization's subject matter expert, responsible for designing, developing, and administering benefits offerings that attract, retain, and engage top talent, all while ensuring compliance and cost-effectiveness. As a key member of our People Operations Team, you will drive initiatives that directly impact employee well-being, retention, and contribute significantly to our overall talent strategy. If you're a benefits visionary with a passion for employee experience and a knack for balancing strategy with execution, we want to hear from you!

What You'll Do:

• Benefits Strategy & Design:Lead the strategic planning, design, and implementation of all health, welfare, and retirement benefits (e.g., medical, dental, vision, life, disability, 401k, EAP, wellness, time off, flexible work, leave management). Conduct market analysis and benchmarking to ensure our offerings are competitive, cutting-edge, and aligned with business goals and employee needs. Collaborate with Finance to manage budgets and identify cost-containment opportunities.
• Program Management & Administration:Oversee the end-to-end administration of benefit plans, ensuring accuracy and a seamless employee experience. Lead the annual open enrollment process, manage complex inquiries, ensure timely data processing, and coordinate workers' compensation claims. Maintain and execute audit schedules for benefits-related tasks and systems, including annual ACA reporting. Proactively recommend emerging benefits to enhance our employer of choice status.
• Compliance & Risk Management:Maintain deep expertise in and ensure full compliance with all federal, state, and local benefits regulations (ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, FMLA). Oversee required filings, audits, and reporting, and proactively monitor regulatory changes to assess their impact and recommend adjustments.
• Vendor Management & Partnerships:Strategically manage relationships with benefit brokers, carriers, and third-party administrators. Lead vendor selection, contract negotiation, SLA monitoring, and performance reviews to ensure optimal service delivery and cost efficiency.
• Communication & Employee Engagement:Develop and execute a robust communication strategy to ensure employees understand the value and utilization of their benefits. Design and lead wellness initiatives and educational programs (e.g., new hire orientations, open enrollment sessions) to promote health and financial well-being.
• Data Analytics & Reporting:Utilize HRIS data and analytics to monitor program effectiveness, identify trends, and provide data-driven insights and recommendations to leadership. Prepare detailed reports on utilization, costs, and key metrics to inform strategic decision-making.

What You Bring:

• Education:Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field.
• Experience:5+ years of progressive experience in benefits management, with a strong focus on strategic design, implementation, and administration within a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.
• Expertise:Deep expertise in U.S. health, welfare, and retirement plans, including self-funded plans, and a thorough understanding of relevant federal/state regulations (ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, FMLA).
• Analytical Skills:Proven ability to conduct market benchmarking, cost analysis, and develop data-backed benefit recommendations that align with business objectives.
• Vendor Management:Exceptional vendor management and negotiation skills with a track record of driving value.
• Communication:Strong written, verbal, and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively translate complex benefit information to diverse audiences, including executive leadership.
• Technical Proficiency:Advanced proficiency in HRIS platforms for benefits administration and reporting (e.g., Workday, UKG, ADP). Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel for complex data analysis.
• Project Management:Demonstrated project management skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a dynamic environment.

Bonus Points If You Have:

• CEBS (Certified Employee Benefit Specialist) certification or other relevant professional certifications.
• Experience administering benefits for a multi-state or global organization.
• Experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI).
• Master's degree in a related field.