Benefits Operations & Compliance Manager

Position Title: Benefits Operations & Compliance Manager

Reporting to the Director of Engagement & Development, the Benefits Operations & Compliance Manager is responsible for the strategic oversight, compliance, and governance of the Universitys employee benefits programs. This role leads plan design, vendor management, regulatory compliance, plan administration and cost analysis to ensure benefits offerings are competitive, sustainable, and aligned with institutional goals. This position serves as the primary subject-matter expert and escalation point for complex benefits and compliance matters.

Primary Responsibilities

• Administer and manage employee benefit programs, including health, dental, vision, FSA, HSA, COBRA, commuter programs, phased retirement, life insurance, disability, retirement, tuition remission, tuition exchange, and wellness initiatives.
• Oversee daily benefit operations, including enrollment, billing, reconciliation and benefit changes.
• Maintain accurate benefits data in WorkDay System and ensure timely processing of benefits-related transactions.
• Provide expert guidance and support to employees on benefits-related questions, policies, and claims issues, with a focus on resolving complex inquiries.
• Design and deliver clear, engaging benefits communications and educational materials.
• Develop and deliver a comprehensive benefits and Workday education strategy that builds fluency across the Suffolk community, improves user confidence, and promotes informed decision-making.
• Develop, manage and implement annual open enrollment processes, including planning, communications, and employee education sessions.
• Develop and review standard reports and information for benefit programs for internal purposes and external reporting requirements.
• Manage processes that support compliance with all applicable state and federal laws and regulations, including ERISA, HIPAA, FMLA, COBRA, ACA, 5550 filings, nondiscrimination testing and IRS requirements.
• Serve as the primary contact for benefits vendors, brokers, consultants, counsel and auditors.
• Administer and manage the Universitys retirement plans including new enrollments. Communicate information to employees regarding program. Ensure that changes are made correctly in Workday and with external providers. Approve distributions and ensure compliance. Facilitate retirement plan changes for updates in plan design and legislative changes by working with Retirement Planning Committee and external counsel.
• Analyze benefits utilization, costs, and market trends to inform recommendations for plan design and cost-containment strategies.
• Partner with HR leadership to align benefits offerings with Suffolk values and goals, and overall employee well-being.
• Collaborate with Payroll, WorkDay, and internal HR teams to ensure integrated and efficient processes, fostering a culture of service excellence and continuous improvement.
• Represent Suffolk University at consortium or professional association meetings related to benefits and total rewards.
• Monitor vendor performance and service delivery to ensure quality and value for employees and the institution.
• Manage employee wellness benefits with a focus on accessibility, education, and engagement, helping employees understand and fully utilize resources that support their overall well-being.
• Support other Human Resources initiatives as needed.

Requirements/Qualifications

• Bachelors degree required or an equivalent combination of education and experience Masters degree preferred or certification such as CEBS, CBP, or PHR/SPHR.
• Not-for-profit, University setting benefits experience preferred.
• Experience working with self-insured and fully-insured plans, and defined contribution plans.
• Experience managing self-funded or consortium-based health plans.
• Strong computer skills including: MS Office (Word and Excel), Outlook, Workday, preferred.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Must be committed to providing the highest level of customer service and responsiveness.
• Demonstrated experience working in a high volume, deadline-oriented customer focused environment.
• Proven ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Must have ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and provide exemplary customer service.