Sr Manager, Benefits

This role is responsible for the development, implementation and day to day management of DaVita’s absence programs, including leaves of absence/FMLA, short -term disability, long-term disability, accommodations and time-off programs, as well as ensure the programs are administered according to applicable regulations, policies and procedures. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Leads and provides guidance to internal LOA team on policies and processes. 

• Manages and monitors vendor performance; investigate and identify gaps in services and address issues with third party administrators (TPA) or carriers to improve quality and customer satisfaction. 

• Leads cross-functional efforts with vendors and internal partners such as Legal, HRIS, Payroll and IT, to drive results on special projects such as implementing local sick leave laws, improving system functionality, enhancement to system administration and integrations. 

• Responsible for designing, implementing, administering, and evaluating disability and leave management programs based on leave and disability claims data, trends, plan designs, costs structures, risk tolerance, customer feedback, and other analyses with a relentless focus on driving a positive employee experience.   

• Implements, manages, and partners with Workers Compensation team on all facets of an integrated disability program. 

• Ensures documentation of LOA policies, processes, and procedures are available and kept current. 

• Initiates and implements improvements to help streamline processes and gain operational efficiency Make recommendations for process improvements and work with internal and external partners for implementation. 

• Educates and advises managers and employees on LOA policies, practices, and processes. 

• Participates in various communication and education initiatives. 

• Creates, implements, and updates policies, FAQ, check lists, training presentations and other related communication materials to enhance customers’ understanding of the programs. 

• Develops and implements strategies to reduce durations and frequencies of absences with the outcome of improved organizational productivity. 

• Develops and recommends employee benefit changes and programs to address loss drivers. 

• Liaison with outside organizations, working in close cooperation and coordination with legal counsel, consultants, and benefit vendors. 

• Establishes and maintains a strong, collaborative partnership with vendors, closely monitoring vendor performance, responsiveness and processes.  Develops and monitors internal and external partner performance against performance guarantees. 

• Provides senior level review of requests for unique, complex leave and disability situations including appeals. 

• Cultivates strong collaborative relationships with HR and senior business leaders. . 

• Investigates and responds to disability and leave vendor complaints from a variety of feedback and escalation channels. 

• Consistent exercise of independent judgment and discretion in matters of significance. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources or related field ; MBA or benefit professional certification (CEBS, CBP, or other) preferred  

• Minimum seven (7) years’ experience in an employee benefits department of a large and/or complex organization in a managerial capacity preferred 

• Experience administering all aspects of absence management programs including, disability, retirement, FMLA, etc. preferred  

• Five (5) + years of subject matter expertise in leave of absence, accommodation, disability, or risk management, with a five (5)-year minimum requirement in direct management and responsibility for programs, products, and outcomes preferred. 

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, a strong ability to manage by influence. 

• Experience in a customer service environment, remote, people management and staff development are preferred.