Director of Benefits

Job Summary:

Unifi is looking for a Director of Benefits to join and lead a team dedicated to employee benefits. This role will be responsible for leading the management, design, and implementation of a comprehensive, self-funded employee benefits plan and well-being programs across multiple regions, including the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. The Director of Benefits will be responsible for managing all aspects of vendor relationships, spend management, negotiations, regulatory and legislative compliance, and an open enrollment program. The Director of Benefits will also lead the integration of benefits for a new acquisition – integrating over 12,000 employees into an existing benefit plan. A candidate with experience in managing benefits system implementations, automation, and digitization efforts of the benefits function would be an added advantage.

Reports to: VP of Total Rewards

Key Responsibilities:

Strategy & Planning:

Plan and lead implementation of self-funded employee benefit plans and well-being programs such as medical, dental, vision, life, disability, COBRA, FSA, HSA, and any other employee benefit offerings for employees in the United States, Canada, and United Kingdom.

Provide cost/benefit analyses of HR programs and works with finance, legal and other support areas to ensure effective implementation of programs.

Evaluate existing benefit plans, industry trends and coverage options available through insurance, review vendor proposals and make recommendations regarding benefit options.

Lead alignment and integration of benefits plan related to recent acquisition.

Lead the design and implementation of innovative wellness programs that promote health and well-being.

Utilize technology and automation to streamline and simplify employee and user experiences.

Manages relationships with vendors, brokers, and carriers, including monitoring cost, service levels, processes and accuracy of data, primary point of contact for escalated benefits issues.

Benefits Administration:

Oversee the day-to-day administration of employee benefits programs including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, as well as retirement plans (401(k)).

Participate in 401(k) committee calls and evaluate plan performance, negotiate terms with providers, and implement cost-effective solutions that maximize employee retirement benefits.

Manage relationships with benefits vendors, brokers, and third-party administrators.

Manage invoicing and payment accuracy.

Oversee open enrollment, including employee communications, enrollment processing, and ensuring compliance with deadlines.

Ensure effective administration of absence management programs, including leave policies and benefits coordination, to support employee well-being and minimize operational disruptions.

Compliance & Reporting:

Ensure compliance with all federal and state laws and regulations, including the Affordable Care Act (ACA), COBRA, ERISA, HIPAA, and FMLA.

Monitor and ensure compliance with retirement plan regulations and filings such as 5500s.

Develop and maintain policies and procedures related to benefits administration.

Employee Communication G Support:

Design and execute employee communication strategies to effectively educate employees on their benefits, options, and changes.

Serve as the escalation point for employee inquiries and resolve complex benefits issues.

Conduct employee surveys and focus groups to gather feedback on the effectiveness of benefits programs.

Budget & Financial Oversight:

Manage the benefits budget, including forecasting, cost analysis, and annual reviews.

Lead vendor negotiations to optimize cost savings and enhance value in employee benefit plans, ensuring alignment with budgetary goals and company standards.

Work closely with finance and legal teams to ensure accurate reporting and audits of benefit plans.

Propose cost-saving strategies without compromising the quality of benefits offered.

Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.

Experience:

8-10 years of progressive benefits (health and welfare) experience for a large workforce of front-line employees in the United States and Canada; including 3+ years in a leadership role.

Experience in designing and managing large-scale benefits programs.

Expertise in compliance with federal, state, and local benefits laws.

Certifications: Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) or SHRM-SCP/CP preferred.

Skills:

Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data and make data-driven decisions.

Strong vendor management and negotiation skills.

Expertise in benefits administration systems and HRIS platforms. (Experience will UKG and Alight preferred)

Experience in managing benefits system implementations, automation, and digitization efforts of the benefits function is preferred.

Excellent communication and presentation skills.

Leadership experience in managing a team and cross-functional projects.

Competencies:

Strategic Thinking: Ability to anticipate trends, foresee potential challenges, and develop innovative solutions.

Compliance & Risk Management: Deep understanding of compliance and ability to manage risk effectively.