Assistant Benefits Manager

SUMMARYBenefits Management is responsible for developing and managing comprehensive benefits programs that align with the organization's overall business objectives. They lead benefits specialists and work closely with senior management, HR staff, and external vendors to ensure that employees receive competitive, cost-effective, and compliant benefits packages.This functional Benefits leader performs complex analyzation of employee benefits plans. They evaluate benefit summary plans, content, contracts, and related documents to ensure company and employee risks for exposure are minimized. Recommend strategies to ensure company is able to maximize benefit offerings to team members at minimal cost to both groups. Recommend and develop employee benefit communications, strategies, and policies. Investigate and review vendors to meet the company’s approved strategies and cost reduction activities for annual renewals and/or continuous improvement activity. The Assistant Manager of Benefits plays a critical role in creating a competitive advantage through the effective management of employee benefits. They contribute to employee satisfaction, retention, and the overall success of the organization by ensuring that employees are provided with valuable and attractive benefits packages while controlling costs and remaining compliant with relevant laws and regulations. This position allows for growth opportunities to progressive job titles within the benefits function.ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned:Benefits Strategy & Design: Develop and implement a comprehensive employee benefits strategy that aligns with the organization’s goals and competitive position in the marketplace.Research and evaluate pros/cons of implementing emerging benefit practices at the company; follow the market trends and continuously refurbish knowledge on benefits products and services available. Design and continuously improve benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans, wellness programs, and other perks, to attract and retain top talent.Develop and promote wellness initiatives and programs to enhance the overall health and well-being of employees. Use claims analysis to develop and promote point solutions to address prevalent health conditions in employee population.Compliance:Ensure compliance with all federal and state regulations, such as ERISA, HIPAA, ACA, and other relevant laws governing employee benefits. Work with Broker to ensure compliance filings are timely and accurate. (ACA, 5500, PECORI, etc.)Stay updated on changes in legislation and make necessary adjustments to the benefits program to maintain compliance.Communication & Education:Develop and execute communication strategies to inform employees about their benefits options, enrollment periods, and any plan changes.Provide educational materials and resources to help employees make informed decisions about their benefits.Maintain and update electronic communications include monthly benefits emails and benefits website.Leads administration and completion of annual open enrollment for all plans offered by establishing internal timelines and processes for benefit selection, changes and vendors, working in conjunction with broker.Employee Support:Monitor and respond to employee questions through benefits email account and phone calls.Assist with complex cases, such as medical claims, disability claims, and act as a liaison between employees and insurance providers. Apply knowledge of medical billing, including claims and payment processing, medical coding, and medical terminology to be sure benefits offered are working as intended and to resolve issues on behalf of our employees.Budget Management:Develop and manage the benefits budget, including cost analysis, trends, forecasting, and cost containment strategies. Ensure the benefits program remains within budget while meeting employee needs.Data Analysis & Reporting:Utilize advanced computer software and apply statistics, tables and graphs to track projections and actual outcomes.Process and track monthly invoices for all benefits vendors. Create monthly reporting presentations for all locations and managements meetings.Use data analytics to assess the effectiveness of benefit plans. Generate reports and provide recommendations for improvements based on data-driven insights.Auditing of employee enrollments, deductions and other related data sets.Vendor & Internal Customer Management:Build relationships with key personnel in other group companies, insurance companies, brokerage firms. Collaborate with benefits brokers, insurance providers, and other external vendors to negotiate contracts, manage costs, and provide high-quality benefits to employees. Oversee the evaluation and selection of benefit plan providers.Internal HR Team Support:Manage and mentor the benefits team, providing guidance, feedback, and training as needed.Ensure the team's performance and development align with the department's objectives.Conduct monthly benefits meetings to keep HR reps aware of changes, programs and initiatives.Other:Bi-weekly review of payroll deduction file.Oversee FMLA process and vendor.Oversee and report metrics on worker’s compensation claims for companies.May travel periodically to other group companies to help support advanced strategies, wellness and other benefit initiatives.Demonstrate ability to present and persuade at all levels of the company utilizing excellent written and verbal skillsDemonstrate a results-driven focus; ability to multi-task and assign priority levels.This position may establish work from home hours weekly once parameters and milestones are set regarding completion of job tasks and functions. EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE Bachelor's degree (B. A.) from four-year college or university; or five years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Extensive experience in benefits management.Experience in medical billing or medical practice administration very helpful. Excellent Excel skills, attention to detail, analytical and problem-solving capability.Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.General computer, HRIS, and benefits management software proficiency.CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:Helpful, but not required: Certificate in Insurance; Diploma in Insurance; Advanced Diploma in Insurance (2-5 years of experience) - Chartered Insurance Broker (CIB) status (after 5 years of experience); CEBS Certification#6200