Manager, Benefits & Rewards Programs

This position provides stratgegic & operational leadership to the Benefits & Rewards Team and is accountable for the design and delivery of all benefits programs and policies, recognition programs, as well as rewards policies (Vacation policy, Leave of Absence, etc.)

• Lead a team of Benefits & Rewards professionals who are responsible for design, analysis, interpretation and guidance to HR staff and employees on City benefits and rewards programs
• Acts as an escalation point for the team for all issues including development of City-wide benefits administration processes & guidelines, analytical and project based activities, including updates and new process initiatives.
• Manage and oversee the development of the City’s Group Benefits program including vendor management and overall benefits strategy.
• Provide recommendations for design and changes to rewards programs & policies
• Manage the design and philosophy of the City’s recognition programs
• Establish partnerships, synergies and transfer of knowledge with other areas of HR to ensure alignment to Benefits & Rewards strategies
• Design standard operating procedures detailing updated processes and policies, and provide training to ensure applicable HR staff are aware of program/policy details, requirements and are able to effectively administer the programs and champion the changes.
• Accountable for IT business requirements and testing of configuration updates to accurately reflect programs & policies
• Acts as the Contract Manager for the City’s Benefits Carrier contract for full-time union and non-union group benefits which includes Health, Dental, Life Insurance and AD&D
• Take accountability for benefit cost recommendations that are part of the Benefit plan as well as any changes to Union benefits as a result of bargaining new agreements
• Identify opportunities on an annual basis for changes to benefits and rewards including time off, health & dental benefits, perks & rewards, including research on trends, benchmarking, workforce analysis and cost/benefit analysis of potential changes.
• Lead the assessment of existing programs, identification of gaps and strengths, recommendations for program improvements and enhanced technology as it relates to recognition programs.
• Take accountability for all applicable policies and design of processes as it relates to recognition, such as Long Service, Retirement gifts, Corporate Award, etc.

• A university degree with a focus on Human Resources Management or related discipline.
• Minimum of ten years progressive experience in the private or public sector, or equivalent experience in benefits, rewards & recognition.
• 5-7 years of experience in leading teams
• Specialized knowledge of benefits & rewards theories and practices supplemented by a solid understanding of Human Resource Management.
• Strong communication, presentation and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated project management, change management, problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong leadership skills along with the ability to build strong working relationships quickly and with ease and influence the decision of others.
• Experience in providing advice on benefit mandate during bargaining is required.
• CHRP or CBP Designations would be considered an asset.