Director of Benefits (Fort Lauderdale)

Director of BenefitsNova Southeastern University (NSU) | Fort Lauderdale/Davie, FL (Hybrid)We are excited that you are considering joining Nova Southeastern University (NSU)—a nationally recognized, not-for-profit university founded in 1964 and known for academic excellence, innovation, and impact. At NSU, we don't just administer benefits—we create meaningful, supportive experiences for our employees at every stage of life.About the RoleThe Director of Benefits is a senior HR leader responsible for shaping and leading a modern, high-performing benefits function that is customer-centered, data-driven, and operationally excellent.This role goes beyond traditional benefits administration—you will transform how benefits are delivered, ensuring every interaction is compliant, efficient, and empathetic, especially during critical life moments. In short: You will architect a benefits function that delivers both operational excellence and an exceptional employee experience.What You'll DoStrategy & OperationsLead the design and execution of a scalable, modern benefits function aligned to university prioritiesEstablish clear workflows, service levels, and operating procedures to ensure consistency and efficiencyDrive continuous improvement across processes, systems, and service deliveryEmployee ExperienceChampion a high-touch, employee-centered approach—especially during leave and life eventsEnsure timely, accurate, and empathetic support across all benefits interactionsUse employee feedback and trends to enhance the overall experienceData & PerformanceBuild and manage a performance framework using key metrics (cycle time, backlog, satisfaction, etc.)Provide actionable insights and reporting to leadershipFoster a culture of accountability and data-driven decision-makingBenefits & Leave OversightOversee health & welfare programs and leave administration (FMLA, ADA, disability, COBRA)Ensure compliant, consistent, and timely case managementPartner with HR and leadership on complex or sensitive casesRetirement ProgramsProvide strategic oversight of retirement programs through the leadership of the Retirement ManagerEnsure compliance, vendor performance, and program effectivenessSupport enhancements and employee education to improve retirement readinessCompliance & RiskEnsure compliance with ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, FMLA, ADA, COBRA, and related regulationsLead audits, filings, and governance practicesProactively identify and mitigate riskVendor & Financial ManagementManage vendor, broker, and consultant relationshipsOversee benefits budget, billing, and forecastingIdentify cost optimization opportunities while maintaining competitive offeringsLeadership & Team DevelopmentLead and develop a high-performing Benefits teamEstablish clear expectations, accountability, and performance standardsFoster a culture of ownership, professionalism, and continuous improvementWhat You BringRequiredBachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience)10 years of progressive experience in benefits administration, strategy, or operations4–6 years of leadership experience managing teams and complex functionsPreferred6+ years leading teams and complex casesCEBS, CBP, SPHR, or SHRM-SCP certificationExperience leading benefits transformation or operational redesignExperience with HRIS or benefits administration systems (Banner experience a plus)What Success Looks LikeA high-performing, customer-centered benefits function with strong service levelsClear, consistent processes with strong compliance and low error ratesData-driven decision-making supported by transparent metricsA capable, engaged team with strong accountabilityContinuous improvement in both operations and employee experienceWhy Join NSU?NSU offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package, including:Tuition waiver and educational benefitsRetirement plan optionsMedical, dental, and wellness programsA collaborative, mission-driven cultureTobacco-free campus committed to employee well-beingEqual Opportunity EmployerNSU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, or any other legally protected status.