Posting Description

DIRECTOR, BENEFITS, Human Resources , initiates and executes strategic benefits change initiatives that support the Institute's mission, and oversees the following MIT benefits programs: Health and welfare, retirement, work-life, and voluntary benefit programs; oversees communications, (e.g., messaging, print collateral, web information, targeted presentations); manages relationships with third-party vendors (e.g. plan record keepers, claims administrators, pharmacy collaborative, auditors, attorneys, actuaries, consultants) to ensure benefits are being administered efficiently, effectively and in compliance with all applicable regulations; manages vendor contracts, in partnership with VPF contracts and sourcing, to ensure adherence to service level agreements and, as applicable, conducts bidding or renegotiation processes; participates in discussions and negotiations with MIT's eight unions, as needed; collaborates to ensure MIT's benefits are administered effectively, continue to respond to the changing needs of the community and reflect up-to-date technology and emerging market trends and developments; and examines the competitive position of MIT's benefits relative to both peer universities and other industry employers.

Job Requirements

REQUIRED : Bachelor's degree; a minimum of fifteen years of experience in benefits planning and management or related field, preferably in higher education; experience identifying, designing, recommending, and implementing innovative business solutions to challenges and commitment to managing and developing teams of professionals; understanding of laws, regulations and governmental programs relating to benefits, including ERISA, HIPAA, ACA, Secure Act, state and federal regulations; knowledge of strategic planning, project and time management, resource and budget allocation; and excellent written and verbal communication skills. PREFERRED : Advanced degree and/or professional benefits certifications; and proficiency with Microsoft Office software, including Word, Excel, Access and Outlook; SAP and Oracle.

All inquiries, nominations/referrals, and resumes with cover letters should be sent electronically and in confidence to Isaacson, Miller at: https://www.imsearch.com/open-searches/massachusetts-institute-technology/director-benefits

2/5/2026