Senior Benefits & Absence Consultant

SUMMARY:

The Senior Benefits and Leaves Consultant will serve as a strategic and operational subject matter expert in all matters related to employee benefits and leave programs.. This senior-level role will ensure compliance, drive process improvements, and partner cross-functionally to deliver effective benefit and leave strategies that support organizational goals and enhance the employee experience.

Working closely with vendors, internal stakeholders, and leadership, the consultant will independently manage complex cases, lead change initiatives, and provide training and consultation to business leaders. The role requires a strong technical skill, deep knowledge of employment law (e.g., FMLA, ADA, ERISA), and the ability to operate autonomously in a fast-paced environment.

 

COMPANY INFORMATION:

National Heritage Academies (NHA) partners with communities to build and operate public charter schools. Founded in 1995, today NHA serves over 100 schools in nine states, with more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Our schools are designed to eliminate the achievement gap and provide school choice to families so their children are prepared for success in college, career, and life. A majority of our schools consistently outperform their local district on the state test. According to the Center for Research on Education Outcomes at Stanford University, NHA is a leading performer among charter schools and management organizations, outperforming both conventional district schools and other charter school operators. In addition, according to our employee survey, over 90% of respondents agree that the work they do is meaningful to them. Join our team.

 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Serve as the lead internal expert on retirement, health & welfare plans, and ancillary benefit programs.

Partner with vendors and brokers on plan design and cost analysis; attend strategy meetings and contribute recommendations.

Implement benefit plan changes, lead communication and change management efforts.

Ensure full compliance with federal and state regulations (ERISA, ACA, etc.) and oversee annual reporting and audits.

Manage complex escalations, claims issues, and support invoicing processes.

Maintain accurate benefit records and oversee regular data transfers with external vendors.

Lead administration of all leave programs, including FMLA, disability, personal, military, etc.

Guide employees, supervisors, and HR Business Partners through leave processes with an emphasis on compliance and customer service.

Collaborate with vendors to ensure proper documentation, tracking, and timely payments.

Identify trends or potential abuse and proactively consult with leadership to address concerns.

Prepare and present leave-related data insights and reports for internal use and compliance purposes.

Lead the organization’s interactive process under the ADA and related disability laws.

Evaluate, approve, and monitor workplace accommodation requests, ensuring equity and consistency.

Communicate effectively with employees and leaders regarding accommodation outcomes.

Utilize HRIS and leave management systems to support process efficiency and accuracy.

Partner with payroll to ensure correct processing of benefit deductions and leave-related compensation.

Serve as a liaison for system testing and troubleshooting for benefit-related platforms.

Deliver proactive consultation and high-level customer service to all stakeholders.

Lead or contribute to projects that enhance operational effectiveness, compliance, and employee engagement.

Stay current on industry trends, legal changes, and emerging best practices.

 

QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

5+ years of relative experience in benefits and leave administration, including strategic vendor management and compliance oversight.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships and act as a trusted advisor.

Proficiency with HRIS systems (Oracle preferred) and Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel).

Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities, exercise sound judgment, and drive process improvements.

 

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