Associate Director, Benefits

Position Summary The Associate Director, Benefits will lead the governance and execution of employee benefit programs. This role will serve as a trusted advisor to cross-functional team members, ensuring that benefits programs are competitive, compliant, cost-effective, and compliant with all legal regulations. The Associate Director, Benefits will oversee vendor partnerships, assist with annual renewals and program evaluations, and provide subject matter expertise on health and welfare, retirement and well‑being benefits. Responsibilities Administer employee benefits programs that align with Company objectives while addressing local market competitiveness, compliance, and employee experience Oversee benefits education and enrollment for new hires, ensuring a smooth and engaging onboarding experience, including developing and delivering benefits presentations, materials, and tools for new hire orientation Manage and lead the planning and execution of annual open enrollment, including timeliness, system configuration, communications, and employee support Manage the Leave of Absence program and process, ensuring all nationwide leaves comply with legally required mandates, SDI/pay coordination, FMLA, and internal policies Design, implement, and evaluate wellness and well‑being initiatives that support employee health, engagement, and productivity. Monitor legislative and regulatory changes and ensure all plans adhere to federal, state, and local laws, including ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, COBRA, and FMLA, including annual 5500 filings and plan audits Manage employee benefit plan vendors, brokers, and consultants, ensuring high service levels and cost‑effective solutions Drive effective communication and education strategies to maximize employee understanding and engagement in employee benefit offerings Utilize employee feedback, market trends, and analytics to continuously improve employee experience Collaborate with HR Operations, Payroll, IT, and other HR team members to ensure smooth administration and automation of employee benefit processes Act as a final point of escalation for complex employee benefit inquiries and sensitive claims issues Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business Administration, or Finance with 8–10 years of progressive benefits administration experience, preferably in the life sciences or biotech industry, or equivalent experience Extensive experience managing self‑funded health plans, including monitoring claims, stop‑loss coverage, and financial performance Deep knowledge of benefits compliance (ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, COBRA, FMLA, ADA, and applicable state laws) Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a strong attention to detail and robust analytical and quantitative skills Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience with HR Information Systems (e.g., Paylocity), and leave administration platform (e.g., Tilt) Strong vendor management and negotiation skills, with a proven track record of delivering cost‑efficient, high‑quality programs Experience scaling programs in a high‑growth, fast‑paced environment Professional designations such as Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS), SHRM‑SCP, or PHR/SPHR are highly valued Work Environment The position is based in our Newark, CA office and requires onsite presence 2–3 days per week. The anticipated annualized base pay range for this full‑time position is $193,000 – $235,000. Ardelyx utilizes industry data to ensure that our compensation is competitive and aligned with our industry peers. Actual base pay will be determined based on a variety of factors, including years of relevant experience, training, qualifications, and internal equity. The compensation package may also include an annual bonus target and equity awards, subject to eligibility and other requirements. Ardelyx also offers a robust benefits package to employees, including a 401(k) plan with generous employer match, 12 weeks of paid parental leave, up to 12 weeks living organ and bone marrow leave, equity incentive plans, health plans (medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision), life insurance and disability, flexible time off, annual Winter Holiday shut down, and at least 11 paid holidays. Ardelyx is an equal opportunity employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr