Total Rewards Benefits Manager - North America

At Suntory Global Spirits, we craft spirits of the highest quality and deliver brilliant experiences to people around the world. As the world’s third‑largest premium spirits company, we are driven by our purpose, legacy, and people. We trust each employee to make an impact and unleash their spirit every day. Role Responsibilities This role is responsible for the day‑to‑day management of Americas (Canada, US, US VI, Mexico) employee benefit plans, ensuring all plans meet strategic objectives. It maintains relationships with HR People Solutions team, third‑party vendors, and consultants, stays informed on legislative/regulatory developments, ensures compliance, and develops recommendations aligned with company strategy. The successful candidate will enable our Total Rewards philosophy to be an employer of choice, building business cases and analysis, using industry trends, market benchmarking and internal metrics, to support outcomes that enhance employee experience. They will work closely with People, Culture and Communications teams and other cross‑functional teams to implement benefit programs and policies that inspire employees. Outcomes / Success Criteria Successfully deliver and proactively manage market‑leading Americas benefit programs, policies and processes. Assist with development of employee benefits strategy to ensure programs are market‑competitive, cost‑competitive and aligned with company strategy, and oversee implementation of approved plan design changes. Monitor internal metrics, industry and workforce trends, and regulatory and legislative changes, working with Total Rewards leadership to develop benefits strategy and implement changes. Develop and execute communication strategies to ensure all parties are fully informed of benefit plan changes, improve employee understanding, and foster appreciation of value. Manage multiple third‑party vendor relationships to ensure efficient administration of all Americas benefit plans. Continually evaluate administrative processes and select/regularly evaluate third‑party vendors and service providers. Qualifications Thorough knowledge of the full spectrum of employee benefit plans (401k, health and welfare plans, etc.). Analytical, critical thinking, statistical and problem‑solving skills to ensure compliance and consistent application. Success in building and maintaining relationships with vendors, HR partners, and employees at all levels. Strong MS Office skills; good understanding of HR systems and vendor interfaces. Strong communication, presentation, interpersonal, planning and organizational skills. Minimum Requirements 5+ years of experience managing all facets of US employee benefit plans, including retirement, health and welfare administration, reporting and compliance. Exposure to North American and International Benefits, Mergers & Acquisitions preferred. Experience managing outsourced administrative vendors, RFP development, selection, project management of implementations/transitions, and plan harmonization. Experience with benefit plan financial modeling, documentation development, research and survey participation. Ability to work independently, proactively in fast‑paced environment, strong ownership and accountability, and escalation management. Ability to articulate issues concisely and clearly for all audiences. Desired Qualifications Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Human Resources or equivalent. Total Rewards experience, such as compensation subject matter expertise. Experience with Union benefits. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Ability to work and lead projects in a matrixed environment. Salary & Benefits Salary range (based in Chicago) is $105,000‑$130,000, plus annual bonus, 401(k) match, profit sharing, medical and wellness benefits. Range may vary if outside location. Relocation, immigration, and tax compliance support may be offered per company guidelines. EEO Statement At Suntory Global Spirits, people are our number one priority, and we believe our people grow together in diverse and inclusive environments where their unique insights, experiences and backgrounds are valued and respected. Suntory Global Spirits is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, military veteran status and all other characteristics protected by law. All recruitment and hiring decisions are based on an applicant’s skills and experience. #J-18808-Ljbffr