Benefits Manager

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Design and execute the firm’s comprehensive benefits strategy, including evaluating current offerings, implementing new programs, and ensuring alignment with market competitiveness and organizational goals.

• Oversee the daily administration of health & welfare, retirement, and supplemental benefit plans, ensuring seamless operation from enrollment to claims resolution.

• Serve as a subject matter expert on benefits-related inquiries from employees, partners, and participants—resolving complex issues promptly and accurately.

• Ensure full compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including managing all required filings (e.g., 5500, 1095-C/1094-C, 720) and maintaining up-to-date plan documentation in partnership with internal ERISA counsel.

• Coordinate the annual preparation, distribution, and filing of 1095-C and 1094-C forms, including partner-specific filings.

• Act as a trusted fiduciary and active contributor to the Retirement Plans Committee (RETCOM) and Welfare Benefits Committee (WELCOM).

• Lead vendor relationships and negotiations, including RFP processes and service transitions; manage service level agreements to ensure vendor performance.

• Direct annual benefits renewals and open enrollment efforts across the organization.

• Partner with HR and Payroll to support benefits transitions for equity partners, ensuring appropriate deduction, eligibility, and coverage updates.

• Conduct annual LTD updates and related HRIS adjustments for equity partners.

• Analyze benefit utilization and participation trends, monitor budget impacts, and propose enhancements aligned with talent attraction and retention strategies.

• Maintain and regularly update administrative procedures related to benefits.

• Lead leave management, including compliance with ADA, FMLA, Workers’ Compensation, and relevant state-specific laws (e.g., Colorado FAMLI); update policies and guide employees through processes.

• Manage invoice reconciliation and benefits billing, ensuring timely and accurate payments and contribution tracking.

• Conduct regular compliance audits in collaboration with vendors and internal teams; address discrepancies proactively.

• Administer processes related to payroll deductions, QDROs, COBRA, and required benefit notifications and disclosures.

• Create and deliver educational resources and workshops to improve benefits literacy and utilization.

• Collaborate on compensation programs and total rewards initiatives as needed, including salary planning, job evaluations, and compensation surveys.

• Drive internal benefits communication strategies to ensure clarity and nationwide reach.

• Stay current on evolving benefits regulations, trends, and best practices.

• Take on additional projects and responsibilities as needed, demonstrating flexibility and commitment to firm-wide goals.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Directly manage the benefits and leave administration team.

• Guide the team in project execution, establish goals, and provide ongoing coaching and performance feedback.

• Promote a collaborative, inclusive, and service-oriented team culture that aligns with the firm’s values.

• Manage team workload and schedules to ensure optimal productivity and service delivery.

• Participate in recruitment and hiring decisions in partnership with HR and department leadership.

• Conduct performance evaluations and create development plans to support team growth.

• Oversee timekeeping and vacation requests for direct reports, ensuring adherence to firm policies.

• Lead employee relations matters, including disciplinary actions or terminations, in collaboration with HR.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with at least 8 years of experience in a professional services environment.

• Minimum of 7 years of hands-on experience managing full-cycle benefits programs.

• At least 3 years of experience administering or configuring a Human Resources Information System (HRIS); UKG preferred.

• 2+ years of supervisory experience; experience in a law firm or similar professional services firm preferred.

• Strong understanding of PPACA, HIPAA, ERISA, COBRA, ADAAA, FMLA, and related legislation.

• Familiarity with total rewards strategies and compensation planning is a plus.

• Preferred certifications: PHR, SPHR, CEBS, or related credentials.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, with advanced skills in Excel.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods.

• Must be able to lift or carry items up to 10 pounds.

• Frequent use of hands and fingers to operate computers and other office equipment.

Work Environment

• Standard professional office setting in a high-rise building.

• Primarily sedentary work with occasional in-person meetings, events, or travel required.