Benefits Manager

Benefits Manager

The Benefits Manager is a strategic and hands-on leader responsible for designing, implementing, and managing the company's benefits and payroll programs — including wellness and recognition. This role ensures that all programs are competitive, equitable, compliant, and aligned with our business strategy and culture.

Serving as a trusted advisor to leadership, the Benefits Manager leverages data, market insights, and technology to drive informed decisions that attract, engage, and retain top talent. Reporting to the Senior Vice President of HR, this position leads a team focused on delivering an exceptional employee experience while advancing the company's talent and growth objectives.

A successful candidate is proactive, analytical, collaborative, and skilled at balancing strategy with execution. They are a trusted advisor, strong communicator, and inclusive leader who fosters engagement and operational excellence.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead the design, execution, and continuous improvement of total rewards programs, including benefits, wellness, and payroll.

• Partner with leadership to ensure programs are equitable, inclusive, and aligned with company culture and business goals.

• Use data and analytics to evaluate program effectiveness, monitor market competitiveness, and inform decision-making.

• Oversee payroll processing, compliance reporting (e.g., ACA), and adherence to federal, state, and local regulations.

• Manage vendor relationships and broker partnerships to ensure cost-effectiveness, quality, and service excellence.

• Oversee total rewards integration for mergers and acquisitions, ensuring seamless transitions for employees.

• Develop and manage the total rewards and payroll budget, optimizing resources and program ROI.

• Establish governance and policy frameworks to maintain consistency, compliance, and fairness across all programs.

• Lead communication and change management strategies to ensure understanding and engagement in total rewards offerings.

• Partner with Talent teams to embed equity and transparency in pay and benefits practices.

• Stay current on market trends, pay transparency laws, and emerging technologies to keep programs modern and competitive.

• Protect sensitive data and uphold confidentiality standards in all HR and payroll processes.

• Lead and develop team members; foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement

• Understand and demonstrate safe work practices at all times to ensure a safe work environment

• Comply with all company policies and procedures

• Complete special projects and other duties as assigned by your supervisor

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strategic thinker with a hands-on, solutions-oriented mindset.

• Collaborative leader who builds trust and fosters inclusion.

• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and adaptable in fast-paced environments.

• Committed to excellence, continuous improvement, and employee engagement.

• Strong knowledge of compensation and benefits practices, payroll, and multi-state compliance.

• Skilled in HRIS and analytics tools, particularly ADP Lyric, preferred.

• Exceptional communication, consulting, and relationship-building skills across all organizational levels.

• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and deliver results in fast-paced environments.

• A high level of computer literacy with the ability to understand and use Microsoft Office applications proficiently including but not limited to Microsoft Word, Advanced Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook

• Experience managing brokers and working with vendors and contractors both locally and internationally.

Experience and Credentials

• Bachelor's Degree in business, HR, or equivalent experience required

• 3+ years of progressive experience in HR, Total Rewards, or Benefits preferred

• Supervisory or leadership experience managing direct reports preferred

• PHR/SHRM-CP preferred

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.

• Ability to travel occasionally for meetings, trainings, or customer engagements.

• Must be able to communicate effectively in person, over the phone, and via digital platforms.

Compensation: N/A