Exempt Director of Benefits

Hybrid Details: Houston, TX - HybridDuration: 3 months to start (contract-to-hire)Job Description:Role Overview:This engagement is intended to provide senior-level benefits leadership coverage with expertise spanning the full spectrum of benefits administration. The individual must be capable of operating at a director-level strategic capacity, engaging directly with executive leadership while also managing operational elements of the benefits portfolio.10 years experience managing benefits operations encompassing the implementation of benefit programs, administration and compliance of qualified retirement plans, health and welfare benefit plans and wellness initiatives in a complex integrated healthcare system or multi-divisional companyMinimum Qualifications:Education: Bachelors degree in Business, HR Management or related disciplineMasters degree preferredLicenses/Certifications: Certification in HR-related area preferred, e.g. Certified Benefits Professional (CBP)Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS)The expectation is that the contractor can step in quickly, assess the current benefits landscape, and support ongoing initiatives and vendor relationships without significant ramp-up time.Core Experience Required (Must-Haves):Comprehensive Benefits ExpertiseThe candidate must have broad benefits leadership experience across both major benefit categories:Health & WelfareMedical, dental, vision programsHealth plan strategy and administrationVendor management and compliance oversightFinancial BenefitsRetirement programs (401k / pension plans)Financial wellness programsDeferred compensation or other financial benefit structuresCandidates should demonstrate experience integrating these benefits into a cohesive total rewards strategy.Executive PresenceThe individual must be comfortable:Presenting to senior leaders and executive stakeholdersLeading strategic discussions related to benefits structure, cost management, and vendor performanceRepresenting the benefits function in cross-functional leadership forumsThis role will require someone who can lead conversations, not just participate in them.Healthcare Industry ExperienceStrong preference for candidates with experience in:Healthcare systemsLarge or complex organizationsHealthcare experience is important due to the complexity of benefit structures, workforce size, and regulatory considerations.RFP Leadership ExperienceThe candidate must have direct experience managing complex benefits RFP processes, including:Vendor selection strategyEvaluation frameworksCross-functional stakeholder alignmentNegotiation and implementation supportThis experience is critical given the scale and vendor complexity associated with benefits programs in large health systems.Annual Enrollment ExpertiseCandidates must have demonstrated experience managing the full lifecycle of annual enrollment, including:Communication strategyEmployee engagement campaignsBenefits technology platformsEnrollment administrationPost-enrollment auditing and reconciliationThe individual should be able to evaluate and support improvements to the annual enrollment process if needed.#LI-Hybrid