Benefits Manager

Chapman and Cutler LLP is seeking a Benefits Manager to join the Human Resources Department in our Chicago office. The Benefits Manager is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of Firm related benefits programs (group health, dental, vision, short-term and long-term disability leaves, worker's compensation, life insurance, flexible spending plans, retirement plans, etc.) as directed by the Chief Human Resources Officer. The position requires an in-office presence in the Chicago office but includes flexibility for some remote work.

The responsibilities of the Benefits Manager will include:

• Administers various Firm benefits programs: health, flexible spending accounts, dental and vision, disability, life insurance, 401(k)/retirement plans, and wellness
• Administers and oversees medical leaves (STD/LTD, FMLA)
• Oversees and administers benefits operations and data within Workday, including enrollments, life events, eligibility and reporting
• Oversees maintenance of employee benefits files and updates related touchpoints on employee payroll records
• Allocates group health and dental claims monthly and reviews quarterly
• Audits employee data and oversees the processing of monthly billings and payment of administrative fees for all group plans
• Assists in administering 401(k) and retirement plans, and compliance related tasks
• Works closely with the payroll department to ensure accuracy of payroll deductions for all benefits-related expenses; provides necessary reports for allocations/billing charges
• Conducts comprehensive review of existing employee benefits programs, assessing utilization, service quality, coverage, effectiveness, costs, plan experience, and industry competitive trends to inform the firm's strategic direction and future initiatives
• Forecasts trends and assists with future benefits designs; develops specific recommendations for review by management
• Monitors administrative costs (short and long-range cost estimates/projections and relevant statistical analysis) of benefits programs and recommends cost containment strategies, including alternative methods for administration and funding; prepares budgetary recommendations and assists in the monitoring, verification and reconciliation of budgeted funds, modifications in benefits programs, and implementation of new programs
• Develops communication tools to enhance understanding of the Firm's various employee benefits
• Facilitates Annual Benefits Presentation and Benefits Fair
• Leads the Firm's annual open enrollment processes including planning, communications, system updates and configurations in Workday
• Designs and distributes summary plan descriptions
• Ensures the accuracy of all benefit enrollments in Workday to provide vendors with accurate eligibility information; responsible for data integrity related to all aspects of the Firm's benefits and retirement plans; run reports from Workday as needed
• Assists all Firm personnel with benefit claim issues and plan/status changes; responds to benefit inquiries and coordinates with insurance brokers and carriers
• Assists in obtaining and reviewing statistics and information in renewal process for health, life and retirement plans
• Develops, implements, and manages comprehensive physical and mental wellness programs aimed at improving employee health and well-being
• Collaborates with external vendors and internal stakeholders to design wellness initiatives that address the diverse needs of the Firm
• Monitors and assesses the effectiveness of wellness programs through data analysis and employee feedback, making adjustments as necessary
• Provides strategic leadership, ongoing training, and professional development support to Benefit Coordinators

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's Degree (preferred)
• Five plus years of prior experience in benefits administration
• Knowledge of all pertinent federal and state regulations, filing and compliance requirements, both adopted and pending, affecting employee benefits programs, including the ACA, and ERISA
• Proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint)
• Strong working knowledge of Workday
• Excellent negotiation and vendor management skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Project and team management/leadership skills and experience
• Effective planning and priority setting; ability to manage several complex projects simultaneously while working under pressure to meet deadlines
• Strong analytical skills and a thorough knowledge of plan designs
• Ability to understand, evaluate and make judgment on proposals\
• Knowledge of benefits contract language
• Committed to following all Firm security protocols and maintaining information security

In accordance with the Illinois Pay Transparency Law, the expected salary range for this Illinois position is between $130,000 - $150,000. The benefits overview for this position is available for review at the below link.
Benefits Overview
To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume. All applicants will be considered; however, the hiring decision will be made based on qualifications for the position.

Chapman and Cutler LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V/SO.