Porter Wright has an opportunity for a
Benefits Manager in the Columbus, Ohio office. The Benefits Manager is responsible for the strategic oversight, administration, and continuous improvement of the firm's employee benefits programs for attorneys and staff. This role ensures competitive, compliant, and cost-effective benefits offerings while delivering a high level of service to employees in a fast-paced law firm environment. The Benefits Manager serves as the firm's subject matter expert on benefits, including retirement plans, wellness, leave administration, and related compliance matters, working closely with leadership, vendors, and internal stakeholders.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:- Manage all firm benefit programs, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, retirement plans (401(k)/profit sharing/cash balance), HSA, EAP, wellness initiatives, and ancillary benefits.
- Evaluate benefits offerings annually to ensure market competitiveness, cost effectiveness, and alignment with firm culture and business objectives.
- Lead annual open enrollment planning and execution, including system configuration, employee communications, meetings, and vendor coordination.
- Partner with finance and leadership on benefits budgeting, forecasting, and cost modeling.
- Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including ERISA, COBRA, ACA, HIPAA, FMLA, ADA, and state leave laws.
- Oversee plan documentation, summary plan descriptions, required notices, annual reporting, audits, and carrier reconciliation.
- Serve as the primary liaison with brokers and auditors regarding benefits-related compliance issues.
- Manage relationships with benefits brokers, carriers, and third-party administrators.
- Lead RFP processes, vendor evaluations, contract negotiations, and performance reviews.
- Resolve escalated claims and complex employee benefit issues requiring carrier or vendor intervention.
- Oversee administration of leaves of absence, including FMLA, ADA accommodations, workers' compensation, and state/local leave programs.
- Ensure consistent application of policies while maintaining a compassionate, employee-centered approach.
- Serve as a trusted resource for employees and leadership on benefits issues and plan interpretation.
- Develop clear, professional communications and educational materials related to benefits and wellness programs.
- Conduct presentations and training for new hires, annual enrollment, and targeted benefits education.
- Analyze utilization, trends, and employee feedback to recommend program enhancements.
- Leverage HRIS and benefits administration systems to ensure data accuracy and reporting integrity.
- Identify opportunities to streamline processes and improve the employee experience.
Requirements and Qualifications:- Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field required.
- Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in benefits administration; professional services or law firm experience strongly preferred.
- Demonstrated expertise in employee benefits compliance and administration.
- Experience managing retirement plans and working with brokers and carriers.
- Certifications such as CEBS, SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP, or PHR/SPHR preferred.
- Strong knowledge of employee benefits regulations and best practices.
- High level of discretion and ability to handle sensitive and confidential information.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to explain complex concepts clearly.
- Detail-oriented, highly organized, and capable of managing multiple priorities.
- Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency in HRIS and benefits administration platforms; strong Excel skills.
- Professional office environment with regular interaction with attorneys, staff, leadership, and external vendors.
- Occasional travel for vendor meetings, conferences, or firm events may be required
