Director of Benefits

Director Of Benefits

Established in 1884, The Donohoe Companies is the Washington, DC region's oldest full-service real estate company. Over the past 140 years, Donohoe has grown into one of the largest real estate companies in the area, encompassing over 1,500 employees across six divisions.

We are seeking a knowledgeable and hands-on Director of Benefits to oversee the administration, delivery, and ongoing support of our employee benefits programs across a diverse and growing workforce. This role is ideal for someone ready to take the next step from a Benefits Manager or Senior Benefits Manager position into a broader leadership role with increased responsibility and visibility.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, service-focused, and experienced in managing the day-to-day operations of employee benefits programs while providing excellent support to employees, managers, and HR partners. This position plays an important role in ensuring our programs run smoothly, remain compliant, and continue to meet the needs of our workforce.

Annual Salary: $100,000 - $130,000

What You'll Do

Employee Experience

• Serve as a primary point of contact for employees' day-to-day benefits-related questions and customer service needs
• Act as a trusted resource for employees, managers, and HR partners regarding benefits policies, processes, and programs
• Manage leave of absence and disability processes with care, responsiveness, and attention to detail
• Support employee engagement through clear communication, education, and benefits outreach initiatives

Benefits Administration

• Administer employee benefits programs including medical, dental, vision, FSA/HSA, life insurance, disability, 401(k), wellness, EAP, and commuter benefits
• Handle enrollments, changes, terminations, payroll deductions, and vendor file transmissions
• Serve as the primary liaison with brokers, insurance carriers, retirement vendors, and third-party administrators
• Manage and support the annual open enrollment process, including employee communications and system updates

Compliance & Reporting

• Support compliance with ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, COBRA, FMLA, ADA, and related regulations
• Coordinate audits, non-discrimination testing, Form 5500 filings, and annual 1095 reporting processes
• Maintain accurate benefits records, policies, procedures, and documentation

Operations & Analytics

• Utilize HRIS platforms and advanced Excel reporting to execute invoicing, audits, census reporting, and benefits administration
• Review benefits utilization, trends, and costs and provide recommendations for process improvements and program enhancements
• Partner closely with Payroll, Tax, Finance, Communications, and HR team members to support accurate and timely administration of benefits programs

Partnership & Program Support

• Partner with the Vice President of Human Resources on benefits planning, renewals, and program updates
• Evaluate benefit offerings and identify practical, cost-effective improvements that support employee needs and business objectives
• Ensure benefit programs remain competitive and responsive to the needs of a diverse workforce

What You Bring

• Bachelor's degree in HR, Business Administration, or related field—or equivalent experience
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in benefits or HR, including leadership responsibilities
• Deep knowledge of benefits administration, compliance, and industry best practices
• Advanced proficiency in HRIS platforms and expert-level Excel skills
• Strong analytical mindset with the ability to translate data into actionable strategy
• Exceptional communication skills with a customer-focused, approachable style
• High level of discretion, confidentiality, and professionalism

Preferred:

• CEBS, CBP, SHRM-SCP/CP, SPHR/PHR certifications
• Experience in construction, real estate, facilities, healthcare, or hospitality environments
• Bilingual (Spanish) skills

This is a highly visible, onsite role that requires regular interaction with employees and stakeholders across multiple locations. Occasional travel to offices, job sites, and properties is expected. The role involves a mix of detailed execution, forward-thinking ideas, and strategic planning in a fast-paced environment with competing priorities. Strong organizational skills, adaptability, and responsiveness are essential.