Senior Client Manager

Summary The Client Manager II applies experience and critical thinking skills to anticipate client needs, demonstrating the ability to understand and articulate expanded and/or alternative methods of managing the client’s benefit programs, including current trends such as consumer‑driven healthcare, alternative funding arrangements, and health & productivity management. They introduce plans designed to support the client’s organizational strategic initiatives and make recommendations accordingly based on client feedback and interest level. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Actively participate in initial strategy meetings with the client to develop the broad outline of the strategy as expressed by the Client Executive. Act in the capacity of the project manager, refining the strategy with the client’s input and as carrier data/feedback is received. Develop marketing strategy for clients based on their needs, history, and a strong knowledge of carriers that can provide the best possible benefit designs and premiums. Negotiate with carriers on the client’s behalf, using knowledge of the client’s historical trends and claims history, and internal underwriting expertise to question carrier rate decisions. Manage the client’s annual timeline, including renewal and Open Enrollment processes. Actively participate in, and frequently lead, strategic planning and renewal meetings to learn client needs, challenges, and concerns. Orchestrate the installation of benefit packages, managing multiple vendor and carrier communications simultaneously, resolving system compatibility issues, and ensuring timely delivery. Create the strategy and branding under which the benefit package will be presented to the client’s workforce, focusing on key messaging during Open Enrollment meetings and plan‑specific communications. Develop the client’s Open Enrollment communication campaign to create understanding and value of the benefits programs and to enrich employees to be knowledgeable healthcare consumers. Develop analytical, customer‑service, and communication skills needed to perform as a Client Executive. Manage the account with minimal supervision, tracking renewal dates, coordinating with the team, and updating presentations as necessary. Present to the Client Executive the financial measures used to predict and analyze plan benefit costs, including factors influencing those costs and premium rates. Learn best practices to present renewal outcomes and provide recommendations based on findings. Keep the Client Executive apprised of potential E&O concerns and client dissatisfaction, and strategize possible resolutions and proactive solutions. Assess the skills and knowledge of service team members through regular interaction, recommending formal training and developmental opportunities. Delegate tasks appropriately based on team member skills and abilities. Ensure projects are on time and deadlines are met. Maintain good file maintenance, documenting account issues and maintaining the Agency Management System. Establish and consistently maintain effective and positive working relationships with internal associates and clients. Education and Experience Must possess a strong understanding of health and welfare plan benefits and carriers, typically acquired through 5–7 years of experience servicing group health and benefits sales or service at a brokerage or carrier, with at least 3 years servicing large client groups (50+ lives). A successful work history of strong client service skill with progressively greater levels of responsibility is required. Bachelor’s degree strongly preferred. Strong communication skills, with the ability to provide non‑technical explanations of technical matters and summarize and present information clearly and concisely. Strong knowledge of employee health insurance carriers, their strengths and weaknesses, and plan design features and cost‑affecting factors. Maintain a valid unrestricted Life and Disability License in California and meet continuing education requirements. Maintain a valid driver’s license and dependable transportation. Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, including experience creating tables, charts, graphs, pivot tables, and formulas. Work Environment & Physical Demands Ability to use a computer keyboard and sit in a stationary position for extended periods, and use office equipment such as fax, copy machines, and telephones. Work is performed in a typical interior/office environment. Travel to client sites is required; travel is usually within driving distance of the office but may require a 2–3 night stay out of town on regular occasions. Extended work hours (10–12 hrs/day) may be required during peak workload periods and for networking and industry functions that begin before the workday and may extend into the evening. Compensation and Benefits The applicable base salary range for this role is $60,000 to $128,000, adjusted based on experience, skills, training, location, certifications, and education. In addition to base salary, the position may be eligible for performance‑based incentives. The total rewards package includes health and welfare benefits, tuition assistance, 401(k) savings, employee assistance programs, and other retirement and wellness programs. #J-18808-Ljbffr