HR Benefits Manager

High‑quality fresh chocolate — that's what the Swiss chocolate manufacturer Läderach stands for. Founded in 1962, the family business now employs over 2,500 people from more than 80 countries, growing continuously from its headquarters in the canton of Glarus. Against a picturesque Alpine backdrop, we produce fresh chocolates and constantly develop new, innovative ideas in agile teams. Benefits Manager Location: Dallas, TX (North America HQ) Department: Human Resources Reports To: Director of Human Resources FLSA Status: Exempt Position Summary The Benefits Manager leads the strategic design, administration, and compliance of the organization’s employee benefits, workers’ compensation, and leave of absence programs. This role ensures regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and an exceptional employee experience while partnering closely with internal stakeholders, brokers, and third‑party administrators. The Benefits Manager is responsible for maintaining cost‑effective programs that align with the organization’s business objectives and talent strategy. Benefits Strategy & Administration You will lead the design, implementation, and ongoing administration of all employee benefit programs, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, retirement, and voluntary offerings. You will serve as the primary liaison with benefits brokers, carriers, and third‑party administrators. You will direct the annual open enrollment process, including planning, communications, system configuration, and execution. You will ensure accurate enrollment processing, eligibility management, and payroll deductions. You will analyze utilization trends and cost data; provide strategic recommendations to optimize program performance and cost efficiency. You will ensure compliance with ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, and other applicable federal, state, and local regulations. You will oversee required benefits reporting, filings, and employee notices. Workers’ Compensation Management You will oversee end‑to‑end management of workers’ compensation claims from initial reporting through resolution. You will partner with carriers, medical providers, and leadership to ensure effective claims management and timely resolution. You will monitor and support return‑to‑work and modified duty programs. You will maintain compliance with state reporting requirements and recordkeeping standards. You will analyze claims trends and recommend initiatives to reduce workplace injuries and associated costs. Leave of Absence (LOA) & FMLA Administration You will administer all leave programs, including FMLA, state family and medical leave, ADA accommodations, personal leaves, and company‑sponsored leave policies. You will ensure timely, accurate, and compliant processing of leave documentation and communications. You will partner with managers and employees to coordinate leave planning and return‑to‑work transitions. You will maintain accurate leave records within HRIS systems and ensure proper tracking of eligibility and balances. You will provide clear guidance to employees and managers regarding leave rights, responsibilities, and compliance requirements. You will maintain compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local leave laws. Compliance, Governance & Reporting You will maintain current knowledge of evolving benefits and leave legislation. You will conduct regular audits to ensure data integrity, process accuracy, and regulatory compliance. You will prepare internal analytics and external reporting as required. You will support HR leadership during audits, regulatory reviews, and annual benefits planning cycles. Employee Experience & Communication You will develop and deliver comprehensive benefits education and communication strategies. You will create clear, user‑friendly materials that enhance employee understanding and engagement. You will resolve complex benefits and leave matters with professionalism, discretion, and empathy. You will serve as a trusted resource for employees and leadership regarding benefits strategy and administration. When we expect from you Bachelor’s degree in human resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred. Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in benefits administration and leave management. Demonstrated expertise in FMLA, ADA, workers’ compensation, and benefits compliance. Experience managing HRIS and benefits administration systems. Strong analytical, organizational, and problem‑solving capabilities. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to manage highly confidential information with discretion and sound judgment. Preferred Qualifications CEBS, PHR, SPHR, or SHRM certification. Multi‑state leave administration experience. Experience With Canadian Benefits Experience managing vendor negotiations and benefits renewals. Background in cost containment strategies and benefits optimization. Läderach is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to hiring a diverse workforce. All openings are filled based on qualifications without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, veteran status, disability, age, religion, or any other class protected by law. Sounds interesting? Then come join us. Jennifer Kassaras, Recruiting and Onboarding Manager linkedin.com/in/jennifer-kassaras-b52b2144 will be happy to answer your questions. You can also visit our career site: My Job Search #J-18808-Ljbffr Läderach