Benefits Manager

Job Description

Job Description

We are looking for an experienced Benefits Manager to lead the strategy, communication, and administration of employee benefits programs in Newport, Rhode Island. This role partners with leadership, brokers, and external vendors to evaluate plan performance, improve program design, and ensure employees understand available coverage and support options. The ideal candidate brings strong analytical judgment, presentation skills, and the ability to translate complex benefits information into clear recommendations for both employees and executives.

Responsibilities:

• Lead the planning, evaluation, and ongoing management of employee benefits programs to support organizational goals and workforce needs.

• Build and maintain productive relationships with brokers and benefit providers while guiding contract discussions and service expectations.

• Assess current offerings and recommend thoughtful plan enhancements based on market trends, utilization data, and employee feedback.

• Prepare and deliver clear presentations on benefits strategy, plan changes, and program performance for executive stakeholders and other internal audiences.

• Explain coverage details, claim-related questions, and benefit options in a way that helps employees make informed decisions.

• Review vendor performance, pricing structures, and renewal terms to identify opportunities for cost control and service improvement.

• Partner with internal teams to coordinate benefits-related activities that support onboarding and overall employee experience.

• Analyze benefits data and program outcomes to support decision-making, compliance, and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Proven experience managing employee benefit programs, including plan administration, vendor oversight, and policy interpretation.
• Strong background in benefits analysis, compensation and benefits, and program coordination within a corporate or shared-services environment.
• Demonstrated ability to support benefits design decisions through data review, benchmarking, and stakeholder consultation.
• Confidence presenting complex benefits information to employees, managers, and executive leadership.
• Working knowledge of explanation of benefits documentation and the ability to clarify plan details for diverse audiences.
• Effective negotiation and relationship-management skills when working with brokers, carriers, and third-party vendors.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, deadlines, and confidential information.