Director, Benefits | Hybrid NY

Description and RequirementsThe Director, Benefits will develop and implement strategic goals for the oversight and management of the organization's benefit and retirement plans, programs, and policies. This includes health insurance coverage, 401(k) plans, paid time off, leave of absence, life insurance, disability protection, employee wellbeing programs, Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (SERP), employee recognition, and discounted voluntary benefits. This role requires conducting research and analysis to align benefit programs with organizational objectives and recommending operational plans that reduce costs while improving program delivery. The Director will also manage general benefits administration, including Open Enrollment.Scope of Responsibilities:Strategic Direction Lead the design and delivery of benefits programs, ensuring alignment with business goals, market practices, and employee needsDirect the strategy and administration of employee benefits, recognition, and retirement programsEnsure strategic alignment of benefits with organizational goals and compliance with legal requirementsMonitor industry and regulatory trends; provide insights and recommendations to inform benefit reviews and renewals; use data and insights to shape strategy, evaluate vendorsAct as a fiduciary leader, in partnership with the Benefits and Retirement CommitteeProgram ManagementOversee and manage health insurance, 401(k), paid time off, SERP, and disability programsConduct research and analysis of benefit programs, monitoring vendor performance and auditing practicesServe as the escalation point for vendor issues, manage RFPs, and negotiate contractsManage and work with broker and vendor partnersCost ManagementIdentify opportunities for cost reduction and program delivery improvementMonitor costs and utilization, recommend cost containment strategies, and engage with Finance to ensure accurate accounting, accruals, and fundingCommunication and AdministrationCommunicate all benefit related information to employees and prepare regular and ad hoc reports for stakeholdersCollaborate with HR Communications to enhance communication strategiesCompliance and GovernanceDirect the preparation of filings to meet governmental rules and regulationsEnsure programs comply with ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, COBRA, FMLA, and other pertinent regulations, and oversee internal audit requirementsTeam Leadership and DevelopmentCoach and develop a high performing benefits team focused on continuous improvement and employee experienceEngage in training and development opportunities to enhance expertise in benefits design and analysisProject ManagementLead annual benefits renewals, Open Enrollment, and employee communicationsServe as the escalation point for vendor issues, manage RFPs, and negotiate contractsAnalytics and InsightsUse analytics to provide insights on utilization, cost trends, and employee feedback to inform strategy and decision makingPrepare reports and presentations for leadership and committees on benefit budgets, forecasts, and trend analysesAdditional Responsibilities:Partner with IT, HRIS, Payroll, and external vendors to optimize systems and ensure data integrityAdvance a holistic wellbeing strategy that encompasses mental, physical, and financial healthLeverage HR technology, particularly Workday, to drive automation and optimize workflowsSupport system testing, upgrades, and troubleshooting to ensure stability and complianceEnsure data accuracy and improve employee experience through system enhancements and digital toolsMinimum Requirements:Ability to work in the office at 100 Church Street three days per week (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday)Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in Human Resources, Finance, or a related fieldExcellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to convey complex subject matter clearly and persuasivelyAbility to work collaboratively across departments and build relationships at multiple organizational levelsDemonstrated strategic, analytical, and detail-oriented mindsetCertified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) designation is preferredExperience using Workday is a plusHiring Range:Greater New York City Area (NY, NJ, CT residents): $154,600 - $236,555All Other Locations (within approved locations): $127,500 - $195,075As a candidate for this position, your salary and related elements of compensation will be contingent upon your work experience, education, licenses and certifications, and any other factors Healthfirst deems pertinent to the hiring decision. In addition to your salary, Healthfirst offers employees a full range of benefits such as, medical, dental and vision coverage, incentive and recognition programs, life insurance, and 401k contributions (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). Healthfirst believes in providing a competitive compensation and benefits package wherever its employees work and live. The hiring range is defined as the low