Global Benefits Lead

Position Global Benefits and Retirement Lead oversees design, governance, and operational excellence for the company’s global benefits portfolio and U.S. health and welfare and retirement programs, including medical, life, voluntary plans, and the 401(k). This role partners closely with HR, Finance, Legal/Compliance, Payroll, and regional leadership to deliver competitive, cost‑effective, and compliant plans that support our global workforce, and reports to the Total Rewards Director based in Houston. Key Responsibilities Benefits Strategy, Design & Governance Oversee U.S. health, welfare, and retirement strategies, evaluate and recommend global health and welfare offerings, drive wellbeing and preventive care strategies, partner with investment advisors and committees, and support fiduciary governance. Compliance & Risk Management Ensure full compliance with U.S. benefits regulations (ERISA, IRC, ACA, HIPAA, COBRA, Section 125, DOL/IRS requirements), oversee required filings and reporting, manage global compliance with local regulations, maintain accurate plan documentation, internal controls, and audit readiness. Benefits Administration & Operations Oversee day‑to‑day administration of benefit programs, lead annual open enrollment and new hire onboarding, ensure accurate payroll deductions, premium payments, system integrations, and act as subject matter expert for complex cases and escalations. Vendor & Financial Management Oversee vendor strategy, selection, contracting, SLAs, performance management, annual renewals, budgeting, forecasting, cost containment initiatives, and monitor vendor compliance and financial performance. Communications, Engagement & Analytics Develop clear, multi‑channel benefits communications, lead U.S. enrollment communications, monitor costs, utilization, trends, investment performance, recommend data‑driven improvements, conduct benchmarking and scenario modeling. Leadership & Collaboration Partner closely with Compensation/Rewards, HRBPs, Payroll, Finance, Legal, and Communications to execute benefits initiatives and support business decisions, contribute to broader HR projects and continuous improvement efforts. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business, Finance, or related field (or equivalent experience). 7–10+ years of progressive benefits experience, including global benefits and U.S. retirement ownership. Strong knowledge of U.S. benefits laws (ERISA, IRS, DOL, ACA, HIPAA, COBRA, 409A) and international benefits concepts (statutory programs, expat plans). Demonstrated experience with vendor management, RFPs, and benefits operations/administration. Proficiency with HRIS/benefits systems and advanced Excel/analytics. Self‑starter comfortable operating in ambiguity and taking ownership of unresolved or evolving issues. Preferred Qualifications Experience with employee benefit plans based outside the U.S.; understanding of local market practices in other regions. Experience in industrial sectors with diverse, distributed, and shift/rotational workforce. Exposure to European Unions and Works Councils. Professional designations: CEBS, GBA, CBP, CCP, or SHRM‑CP/SCP, PHR/SPHR. Experience with Workday and ADP Benefits. Benefits of Joining Ketjen Competitive compensation Comprehensive benefits package Career growth and development opportunities Inclusive and collaborative workplace culture Equal Employment Opportunity Statement EEO is The Law - click here to see more information Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Protected Veterans/Disabled/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity #J-18808-Ljbffr Albemarle Netherlands BV