Compensation Manager

Compensation Manager – Location: Buffalo, NY; New York, NY; Chicago, IL The Compensation Manager plays a key role in shaping and delivering compensation programs that support our ability to attract, retain, and reward top talent. This position is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing competitive and equitable compensation practices across multiple business units within a dynamic and decentralized organization. Reporting to the Director of U.S. Compensation & Global Mobility, the Compensation Manager will partner closely with HR Business Partners, HR Site Leaders, Finance, Talent Acquisition, HRIS, Payroll, and business leaders to develop practical, market‑driven compensation solutions that support business objectives, workforce stability, and employee engagement. This role will lead a variety of compensation initiatives and ensure programs are aligned with business strategy, support talent attraction and retention efforts, and maintain compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Key Responsibilities Compensation Strategy & Program Management Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of compensation programs across multiple business units. Partner with the Director to execute U.S. compensation strategy aligned with organizational goals and market competitiveness. Manage annual compensation cycles, including merit, bonus, and equity processes. Ensure consistency, equity, and alignment across compensation practices while accommodating BU‑specific needs. Business Partnership Serve as a trusted advisor to HRBPs and business leaders on compensation‑related matters such as offers, promotions, retention strategies, and organizational design. Provide consultative guidance on complex compensation decisions, balancing internal equity and external competitiveness. Collaborate with cross‑functional teams (Finance, Legal, Talent Acquisition) to support business initiatives. Market Analysis & Benchmarking Conduct market analysis using compensation surveys and tools to ensure competitive positioning. Analyze compensation data and trends to inform program design and decision‑making. Develop insights and recommendations based on data analytics and business objectives. Program Design & Governance Design and refine salary structures, incentive plans, and job architecture frameworks. Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including pay transparency and pay equity requirements. Lead or support pay equity analyses and remediation efforts as needed. Leadership & Team Management Train and share knowledge with compensation team members, fostering a high‑performance, collaborative environment. Drive continuous improvement in compensation processes, tools, and systems. Act as a subject‑matter expert and mentor within the broader HR organization. Global (Group) Alignment Partner with Global Mobility and international compensation teams to ensure alignment on global compensation principles and practices. Support global initiatives and projects as needed. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field required. Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) designation preferred. 5+ years of progressive compensation or total rewards experience, preferably within a manufacturing, consumer packaged goods (CPG), or similarly complex operational environment. Experience supporting multiple business units, functions, or locations within a decentralized organization. Experience administering and leveraging compensation systems (e.g., SuccessFactors) and compensation survey platforms. Demonstrated experience developing, implementing, and managing compensation programs, including base pay structures, market pricing, incentive plans, and compensation communications. Strong understanding of compensation principles, practices, and regulatory requirements. Experience analyzing compensation data and utilizing market survey resources such as Mercer, WTW, Aon, and other leading compensation benchmarking tools. Knowledge of job evaluation methodologies, salary structure design, and market‑based compensation strategies. Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office 365 applications, particularly Excel, PowerPoint, and Word. Strong analytical and quantitative skills with the ability to translate data into actionable recommendations. Excellent interpersonal, communication, and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build effective partnerships across all levels of the organization. Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively in a team‑oriented environment. Strong problem‑solving, critical thinking, and decision‑making capabilities. Exceptional organizational skills with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail. French language proficiency is a plus. Benefits We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards Program with a variety of affordable benefits and coverage options. The company supports insurance costs significantly, contributes generously to retirement plans, and offers Paid Time Off from day one. We are committed to your professional growth, providing training and development opportunities, including Education Reimbursement. Join us and grow your career. EEO Statement Lactalis is an equal employment opportunity employer. We will not discriminate against applicants with regard to any legally‑recognized basis including, but not limited to: veteran status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, and physical or mental disabilities. Further, any division of the Company that is an affirmative action employer will comply with all related legal obligations. #J-18808-Ljbffr