Benefits Manager, Human Resources

Benefits Manager, Human Resources – Wake Forest University

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• External Applicants: Please ensure all required documents are ready to upload before beginning your application, including your resume, cover letter, and any additional materials specified in the job description.
• Current Employees: Apply from your existing Workday account in the Jobs Hub. Do not apply from this website.
• Use the "My Experience" application page to upload your cover letter, resume, and any other required supporting documents. You can select multiple files.
• This is the only opportunity to attach your cover letter, resume, and supporting documents. You will not be able to modify your application or add attachments after submission.

A cover letter is required for all positions; optional for facilities, campus services, and hospitality roles unless otherwise specified.

This position is responsible for managing and maintaining the University's benefit programs. The incumbent works collaboratively and communicates with the Human Resources (HR) team, Information Systems, Finance, Budget, Payroll, third‑party administrators, consultants, campus partners, and faculty and staff to collect, monitor, and analyze benefits data; provide feedback, make recommendations, and ensure compliance.

• Manage the daily benefits administration for medical, pharmacy, behavioral health, dental, vision, supplemental, and life insurance plans.
• Manage the overall retirement process for faculty and staff, including retiree benefits, administration, communication, events, and open enrollment.
• Monitor industry trends and best practices, evaluate peer benchmark data, and recommend new or enhanced benefit programs. Support management’s decision‑making process by analyzing options and projecting future costs.
• Manage compliance with the Affordable Care Act process and compliance efforts.
• Manage the fringe benefits budget and prepare updates to support data‑driven decisions. Review, process, and reconcile all third‑party administrator billing.
• Manage data integration files between the University and third‑party administrators and lead benefits‑related enhancements and updates in Workday.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local legal requirements (e.g., ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, ACA) and keep annual filings, reporting, and plan documentation up to date.
• Build and maintain relationships with third‑party administrators and consultants to monitor plan performance and address service or claims issues.
• Manage the open enrollment process, including planning, communication, and administration.
• Lead the development of benefits‑related communication, including benefits guidebook, flyers, newsletters, online resources, and new employee benefits orientation.
• Manage non‑exempt staff through coaching, counseling, and mentoring.
• Provide comprehensive support and assistance to employees regarding benefit plans, policies, claims, and eligibility inquiries.
• Evaluate and seek to improve benefits operating systems, processes, and efficiencies. Perform other related duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field plus three years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• General knowledge of HR functions.
• Solid understanding of benefit programs.
• Solid understanding of accounting and budgeting.
• Ability to analyze, interpret, and communicate complex data.
• Proven ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive HR information.
• Knowledge of superior customer service standards and ability to maintain a cooperative, professional demeanor when working with a wide range of individuals in a diverse community.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in person, email, or by phone.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Proficiency with technology (web, email/calendar, Google Office Suite, Microsoft Office, spreadsheets, basic reporting tools, ERP systems).
• Ability to work efficiently in a multitasking environment and prioritize tasks.
• Team‑oriented, continuous…