Small Group Client Manager, Employee Benefits

JOB SUMMARY:

The Small Group Client Manager owns the day-to-day relationship for a dedicated book of clients with 100 employees and under, serving as their primary contact and trusted advisor. This role leads clients through the annual renewal process, provides ongoing support, and delivers solutions tailored to client goals. The Client Manager focuses on building strong client relationships, delivering exceptional service, and offering expert guidance on employee benefits to help clients remain competitive in their industries. Success in this role comes from thriving in a collaborative team environment, demonstrating continuous professional growth, and aligning with the organization’s values and goals.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Account Management:

• Partner with clients throughout the renewal process, ensuring seamless communication and guidance.


• Maintain regular communication with clients to address issues, answer questions, and resolve challenges promptly.


• Present renewal options and strategies to clients, ensuring alignment with their business goals.


• Conduct open enrollment meetings, clearly explaining and relaying benefit information to clients and their employees.


• Stay informed on employee benefits trends, including plan designs, cross-sell opportunities, legislation, compliance, and emerging market trends.


• Proactively identify opportunities to retain clients and achieve high client satisfaction.


• Quickly assess and address client needs, providing viable solutions that exceed expectations.


• Communicate effectively with internal team members regarding client issues, renewals, and proactive planning.


• Foster a positive team environment by offering encouragement, mediating concerns, and promoting collaboration.


• Contribute ideas for improving processes and enhancing client service.

Business Development

• Supports business development by identifying opportunities to expand coverage lines within existing clients and contributing to referral and networking efforts.

Professional Development

• Maintains a strong working knowledge of employee benefits, including plan designs, funding strategies (fully insured and self-funded), ancillary benefits, compliance requirements, and emerging trends.


• Engages in ongoing learning through industry courses, professional designations, webinars, and knowledge sharing within the team.


• Collaborates with colleagues to foster a supportive environment, offering feedback, encouragement, and ideas for improvement.


• Actively contributes to a culture of collaboration, sharing best practices and supporting the development of colleagues.

Administrative

• Utilizes technology tools (Applied Epic, Dynamis, HRIS systems, Microsoft Office Suite, etc.) to streamline workflows, maintain accurate records, and efficiently communicate with clients and team members.


• Maintains updated client information and email distribution lists to ensure timely and effective communication. 

REQUIREMENTS:

Experience & Knowledge:

• 3-5 years of experience in employee benefits (preferred), with strong knowledge of fully insured and self-funded plans, ancillary lines, and compliance requirements.


• Experience with large group accounts (50+ employees) strongly preferred.


• Maryland Life & Health license (required).

Skills & Strengths:

• Ability to translate complex benefits concepts into clear, actionable strategies for clients.


• Strong presentation and communication skills, with the ability to explain benefit options to clients and employees with varying levels of benefits knowledge.


• Proactive relationship-builder who anticipates client needs and offers practical solutions.


• Highly organized, able to manage multiple priorities and deadlines effectively.


• Comfortable using business technology, including AMS & CRM systems, Microsoft Office Suite, and presentation software.

Additional Requirements:

• Valid driver’s license (some travel for client meetings and events may be required).


• This role is primarily office-based with no significant physical demands.