Benefits Manager

Unifi is the nation's largest aviation services provider, with over 40K team members and a global footprint spanning over 230 airports in the U.S., Canada, and the UK & Ireland. We deliver reliable, high-quality aviation services in partnership with some of the world's leading airlines. At Unifi, you'll be part of a diverse, inclusive team where passion, integrity, and empathy are at the core of what we do.

The Benefits Manager plays a pivotal role in administering comprehensive employee benefits and well-being programs. This leader combines hands-on management of daily operations with a strategic vision to deliver best-in-class benefits experience for employees. The position requires a deep understanding of regulatory compliance, vendor management, and the ability to adapt to changing benefits landscapes.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, manage, and continuously improve employee benefits and well-being programs, including 401(k), medical, dental, vision, life, disability, supplemental benefits and other offerings.
• Lead and mentor the benefits administration team, overseeing day-to-day operations, resolving eligibility and plan issues, and providing Tier 2 customer service support.
• Research and evaluate new benefit options and enhancements by analyzing industry trends, employee needs, and consulting expert resources.
• Advise senior leadership on benefits strategies, recommending programs that align with organizational goals and employee expectations.
• Manage relationships with vendors and carriers, ensuring competitive pricing, high service levels, process efficiency, and accurate data administration. Act as the primary escalation point for complex benefits issues.
• Ensure full compliance with federal, state, and local regulations (ERISA, COBRA, ACA, HIPAA, FMLA etc.), including preparation and submission of required filings to regulatory agencies such as the IRS and DOL.
• Oversee the annual benefits open enrollment process, coordinating timelines, communications, and successful completion of all milestones.
• Oversee 401(k) plan performance and investment strategies including preparing and filing necessary government documentation.
• Prepare and distribute benefits utilization reports to key internal stakeholders, fostering understanding of plan features and value.
• Resolve employee escalations and inquiries by interpreting and applying benefits policies and procedures.
• Generate ad hoc and scheduled reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing data from multiple sources to inform decision-making and identify trends.
• Monitor developments in benefits legislation and implement program, policy, and procedural changes as needed to maintain compliance and optimize offerings.
• Foster a collaborative team environment, supporting organizational objectives and driving continuous improvement initiatives.
• Lead system integrations and file feed set up between benefits, payroll and other systems, as required

Position Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Finance, Human Resources, or a related field.
• Minimum seven years of progressive experience in benefits administration (health and welfare) within a large organization, with a strong focus on reporting and financial analysis.
• At least five years of experience in a managerial or supervisory capacity to manage shared services resources
• Experience working in a unionized environment is highly desirable.
• Proficiency with HRIS platforms (UltiPro preferred) and advanced skills in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Access, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook), as well as other proprietary software.
• Professional certifications such as CEBS, CBP, or progress toward certification are preferred.
• Comprehensive knowledge of employee benefit program concepts, compliance requirements, and industry best practices.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze data, identify trends, and develop advanced solutions to optimize benefits offerings.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across all levels of the organization.

Preferred Competencies

• Excellent execution skills to manage operational demands and long-term planning.
• High level of integrity and discretion in handling confidential information.
• Proven leadership skills in developing and motivating teams.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and staying abreast of industry trends and regulatory changes.
• Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Experience with Alight and UKG preferred