Global Benefits Manager

San Francisco, CA/HybridPeople & Culture /Full Time /HybridThe Global Benefits Manager leads the strategy, design, analysis, and administration of Business Wire’s global benefits and leave programs, while also providing direct leadership and oversight to the benefits team. This role is responsible for driving scalable, compliant, and employee-centric programs across multiple regions, while fostering a high-performing, collaborative team environment grounded in accountability, sound judgment, and clear, empathetic communication.The Global Benefits Manager serves as a subject matter expert in benefits and leave, ensuring operational excellence, compliance, and strong vendor partnerships. This individual collaborates cross-functionally with People & Culture, Finance, Legal, and external partners to deliver high-impact programs that align with business goals and employee needs, while handling sensitive matters with discretion and strong professional judgment.Candidate Must be able to be in the office 2-3 days a week What You Will DoManage global benefits and leave programs, including health & welfare benefits, 401(k) retirement plans, and wellbeing initiatives, ensuring ongoing administration, compliance, and vendor performanceProvide day-to-day oversight of benefits administration, including directing team activities, monitoring service delivery, and ensuring high-quality employee experienceProvide direction, oversight and mentorship for the Benefits team by supporting a cooperative atmosphere and promoting a culture of high performance, accountability, constructive dialogue, collaborative problem-solvingEnsure clear, proactive, and empathetic communication of benefits programs and changes to employees, managers, and stakeholders at all levelsExercise sound judgment in the administration of benefits and leave programs, particularly when handling sensitive or complex employee situationsStay current on federal, state, and international regulations and market trends to ensure compliance and competitiveness across all geographiesOwn and optimize Workday Benefits functionality, including testing, audits, and ongoing system enhancementsLead end-to-end Open Enrollment process, including vendor coordination, employee communications, testing, and post-enrollment auditsManage and analyze benefits data, including enrollment, utilization, and cost trends; provide actionable insights and recommendations to leadershipConduct regular audits and reconciliations to ensure accuracy of benefits administration, payroll integration, and vendor billingPerform financial and cost-benefit analysis for new and existing programs; evaluate ROI and recommend improvementsManage relationships with benefits vendors and brokers, including performance oversight, renewals, and service deliveryServe as a subject matter expert, advising HRBPs, managers, and employees on benefits and leave programsDrive continuous improvement by identifying process gaps, conducting root cause analysis, and implementing scalable solutionsSupport internal and external audits; manage remediation plans and ensure timely resolution of findingsPartner cross-functionally to ensure seamless integration of benefits with payroll, HRIS, and broader People programsAssist with Total Rewards programs including Annual Merit & Bonus Programs, and Radford SurveysWhat You will Need 8–10+ years of progressive experience in global benefits and leave administration, including team leadership and people managementBachelor’s degree or equivalent experience; PHR/SHRM certification preferredExperience with Workday Benefits (e.g., Open Enrollment, life events, integrations); configuration and reporting capabilities are a plusProven experience managing global benefits programs across multiple regions (e.g., US, EMEA, APAC)Deep knowledge of leave of absence programs and applicable regulations (e.g., FMLA, ADA, state and international leave laws)Strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to coach, develop, and motivate team membersExceptional communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and with empathy to diverse audiencesDemonstrated sound judgment and discretion, particularly when managing sensitive or confidential employee mattersStrong analytical and financial acumen with advanced Excel skills (e.g., modeling, pivot tables, data analysis)Proven ability to manage vendors and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organizationStrong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlinesHigh level of initiative, problem-solving capability, and attention to detailCustomer service-oriented mindset with a focus on delivering a positive and supportive employee experienceWhat We Offer The base salary range for this position is $135k-140k/year. Offered salary will be determined by several factors, including but not limited to: applicant’s education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with geographic market data. Business Wire reserves the right to modify this salary range at any time.Business Wire’s total rewards include:Ability to work remotely/hybridExcellent health benefits that begin on your first day of employment$100 monthly fitness allotment, a tuition reimbursement program, and enhanced mental health resources401(k) plan with generous company match, and annual profit sharing contribution (subject to company performance)PTO, Floating Holidays, Wellness Day Off, Birthday Day Off, and more