Director Benefits and Employee Well-Being

About the role

Reporting to the Chief Human Resources Officer, the Director of Benefits and Employee Well-Being provides strategic and operational leadership for the University's employee benefits, absence, and employee well-being programs. The Director plans, designs, and evaluates benefit and absence programs, ensuring that practices are thoughtfully considered and consistently applied in alignment with the University's mission, vision, and operational needs. Benefit and Well-Being Strategy Provides strategic leadership for the University's comprehensive benefits, absence, and well-being programs, including health and welfare, retirement, and employee wellness initiatives. Evaluates and recommends program design enhancements to ensure alignment with institutional objectives, workforce needs, and long-term financial sustainability. Reviews market data and peer practices to assess external competitiveness and inform program positioning. Analyzes program costs, utilization, participation, and workforce trends to guide planning and decision-making. Advises senior leadership on program performance, financial risk, regulatory developments, and emerging trends. Explores and evaluates innovative approaches to employee well-being, collaborating with Health Promotion as well as other internal and external stakeholders to deliver meaningful and mission-aligned offerings. Benefits Program Management Leads the annual benefits strategy and operational cycle, including planning, vendor negotiations, renewals, and open enrollment. Oversee benefits and absence administration within Workday, continuously evaluating business processes, and identifying opportunities for automation, optimization, and improved employee experience. Manages relationships with benefit consultants, carriers, and third-party administrators to ensure service quality, compliance, and alignment with University goals. Ensures compliance with applicable federal and state regulations (e.g., ERISA, ACA, FMLA, COBRA) and University benefit and absence policies. Oversees planning and execution of employee well-being and recognition initiatives, including Service Awards, Retirement Celebrations, Dunlora Retiree Society, and campus-wide wellness events. Consultation and Partnership Serves as a subject matter expert and resource to HR colleagues, managers, and employees on benefits, absence, and employee well-being programs. Guides the interpretation of plans, the application of policy, and complex or escalated employee matters. Leads the development and delivery of clear, accessible benefits and absence communications and educational programming. Partners closely with the Office of Planning and Budget to support financial modeling, forecasting, and sustainability of benefit programs. Leadership Leads, develops, and mentors team members, establishing clear performance expectations and fostering professional growth. Serves on, and may chair, University committees related to benefits, employee well-being, and institutional planning. Ensures programs operate within approved financial parameters and demonstrates strong fiscal stewardship. Promotes alignment and collaboration across Human Resources to maintain consistent service delivery and shared understanding. Guides the team through evolving ways of working, including the responsible and ethical use of AI-enabled and emerging technologies.