Manager, Benefits Strategy

Job Description: Summary: This role will serve as a critical member of the Compensation and Benefits team, bringing deep expertise in benefits strategy and management to the organization to ensure we remain a competitive employer of choice. The Manager, Benefits Strategy will serve as a thought partner to leadership on total rewards strategy, drive data-informed decisions on plan design, and collaborate closely with colleagues, third-party consultants, and providers to develop and implement programs that attract, retain, and engage talent across all employee populations. Responsibilities Analyze existing benefits programs and policies relative to prevailing practices to identify opportunities to ensure competitive benefit offerings, fiscal responsibility, and legal compliance. Leverage benchmarking data and utilization analytics to inform plan design recommendations and present findings to senior leadership. Proactively identify and implement process improvement opportunities and ensure plans remain legally compliant. Manage annual open enrollment process, including plan implementation/changes and the development of communication materials. Act as liaison with benefits brokers, vendors, and insurance carriers to assure proper administration of the plans. Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations including ERISA, COBRA, ACA, HIPA, and FMLA; maintain knowledge of benefit-related regulations. Support annual Form 5500 filings and audits including Non-Discrimination Testing. Support the coordination of employee leave of absences (LOA). Serve as subject matter expert in the formation of benefit policies and partner with leadership on escalated member issues and appeals resolution. Lead the coordination of the executive Benefits Committee, overseeing plan management with third-party consultants. Manage the benefits budget, including cost forecasting, vendor negotiations, and ROI analysis of current and proposed programs. Develop and oversee a holistic employee wellbeing strategy, including mental health, financial wellness, and EAP programs, tailored to the diverse needs of our workforce. Design and execute a benefits communication strategy that drives employee awareness, understanding, and engagement across all segments of the organization. Provide consultation and technical input for plan policies and descriptions. Maintain a strong understanding of union collective bargaining agreements to ensure proper administration of benefits to those populations. Be well‑versed in Workers’ Compensation processes, including collaboration with carriers and internal stakeholders. Be knowledgeable in OSHA compliance requirements and workplace safety reporting, including incident documentation and regulatory filings. Qualifications 5+ years of experience designing, implementing and managing complex benefit programs; experience in sports, entertainment, or similarly complex multi-population organizations preferred. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, ability to present views in a clear and compelling manner. Working knowledge of relevant statutory benefit requirements. Strong presentation and facilitation skills; ability to articulate plan details to employees. Demonstrated project, process, and time management skills. Excellent collaboration skills and ability to excel in a team-first environment. Proven ability to use data and analytics to evaluate program effectiveness, model costs, and build the business case for strategic investments. Experience presenting to and influencing senior leadership and operating in a consultative HR model. Salary Salary Range: $80,000 - $90,000 EEO Statement: The New York Mets recognize the importance of a diverse workforce and value the unique qualities individuals of various backgrounds and experiences can offer to the Organization. Our continued success depends heavily on the quality of our workforce. The Organization is committed to providing employees with the opportunity to develop to their fullest potential. #J-18808-Ljbffr New York Mets