Leave of Absence Specialist

Leave of Absence Specialist A key role focused on overseeing the organization’s employee leave programs, ensuring compliance and enhancing employee experience. Responsibilities Serve as a subject‑matter expert on all leave programs, ensuring policies, workflows, and communications reflect current legal requirements. Coordinate with GBS Tier 1 teams on case management, process improvement, and escalations. Act as a trusted partner for GBS Tier 1 support, leaders, and colleagues navigating medical, parental, military, and other leaves. Monitor and interpret federal, state, and local leave laws (FMLA, ADA, state PFML, etc.), ensuring organizational compliance and escalating risk appropriately. Partner with GBS, HR Business Partners, Payroll, Legal, Employee Relations, and external vendors to align systems, pay practices, and operational processes. Partner with Employee Relations on return‑to‑work processes, including accommodation pathways, transitional duty, and leader coaching. Produce actionable reporting on leave trends, compliance risks, and operational performance; identify opportunities to optimize program design. Manage leave vendor(s) to drive optimized service levels and colleague experience. Provide expert guidance to leaders and colleagues on policy interpretation, ensuring consistency and fairness. Qualifications Strong command of FMLA, ADA, HIPAA, state leave laws, and disability programs; ability to interpret and apply complex regulations. Ability to translate complex policies into clear, actionable guidance for employees and leaders. Strong analytical skills and data interpretation. Excellent communication and negotiation abilities. Outstanding organizational skills and ability to produce quality results in a highly matrixed, fast‑paced environment. Ability to maintain composure and efficiency in stressful situations. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite. Legal authorization to work in the United States (sponsorship not provided). Preferred Experience Five (5) years in leave administration, benefits operations, or HR compliance within a multi‑state or enterprise environment. Experience in a large global company. Experience with Workday HCM and ServiceNow. Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred. Location Ideally based in St. Louis, MO or Sidney, OH. Hybrid/flexible arrangement may be considered; candidates may need to travel to company locations. Equal Opportunity / Inclusion Copeland is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status. Individuals with work authorization, including temporary visas, may apply only if authorized to work in the United States. #J-18808-Ljbffr Copeland LP