The UA Local 322 Benefits Funds (“the Funds”) located in Winslow, New Jersey, are currently seeking a Director of Benefit Operations. The Director of Benefit Operations (“Director”) will report to the Administrator, who is responsible for overseeing all aspects related to the administration of the Benefits Funds and ensuring the Funds’ goals and objectives are met. The Director will work collaboratively with, and provide support to, the Administrator as well as day-to-day supervision of the Funds’ staff. Please note that the Director is required to work in the office on a full-time basis.
The Director role is a hands-on position that requires an experienced benefits professional who is able to operate effectively with minimal direction. This role offers the opportunity for short-term growth, as the ideal candidate will be an experienced leader who can make an immediate impact while learning the Funds and organization so that they will be in a position to assume the Administrator (top) position within six (6) months to a year.
The Fund Office provides benefit administration for four (4) multiemployer benefit plans that were established pursuant to collective bargaining agreements between signatory companies and the U.A. Local 322 covering skilled Plumbers, Pipefitters and HVAC Service Technicians in Southern New Jersey. The Funds provide benefits to over 1,200 active and 900 retired participants and their families.
Responsibilities
- In conjunction with the Administrator, oversee day-to-day operations and ensure financial and operational accuracy and compliance of the administration of the benefit funds.
- Oversee day-to-day management of all Fund Office staff (a group of 4-5 staff members).
- Work with, monitor, coordinate with and assist outside advisors (i.e., attorneys, actuaries, consultants, auditors, and investment advisors).
- Establish and monitor office policies, procedures and standards to ensure the highest level of professionalism and efficient, accurate and prompt service to participants and Employers.
- Research and review difficult or complex benefit appeals, inquiries or escalated customer service issues.
- Communicate plan and policy changes to the staff, vendors, plan professionals and other parties as applicable.
- Coordinate, prepare materials for and attend quarterly Board of Trustee and Committee meetings, including drafting meeting minutes.
- Maintain a working knowledge of plan provisions for all benefit plans.
- Maintain an understanding of ERISA, IRC, DOL and other requirements and other areas of fiduciary responsibility that arise in the administration of the Funds.
- Ensure compliance with relevant plan statutes, regulations and requirements and consult with outside professionals on compliance matters as needed.
- Ensure systems are maintained and updated to support the Funds’ recordkeeping, benefit processing and participant service needs.
- Recommend and support the implementation of new benefits administration systems, tools and technologies as needed.
Requirements
The ideal candidate will meet the following requirements:
- Work Experience: Minimum of seven (7) years of increasingly responsible experience in benefits administration or operations required. Minimum of five (5) years of management experience required, including direct experience with executive-level decision making and interaction with executive management. Experience with Taft-Hartley benefit funds and working in a collectively bargained environment strongly preferred.
- Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree or commensurate related experience required. Advanced degree or certifications (e.g., CEBS) preferred.
Special Skills or Credentials:
- Experience with multiemployer benefit fund operations and knowledge of health, retirement (DB and DC) and related employee benefit plans as well as related governmental/legislative regulations.
- Ability to interpret financial and operating information.
- Demonstrated leadership skills, excellent judgment and strong work ethic.
- Ability to direct and develop staff in area of employee benefit administration.
- Exceptional interpersonal, listening and communication skills.
- Ability to act with integrity and confidentiality at all times.
- Strong negotiation, conflict resolution and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, including the ability to multi-task and prioritize effectively in order to meet deadlines.
- Flexible, team player that can lead effectively as well as provide support to others in leadership roles.
- Proficiency with current technologies, including benefits administration software and MS Office suite.
To Apply
The Funds offer an annual salary of $120,000 - $130,000 commensurate with experience as well as a comprehensive benefits package that includes fully employer paid health plan coverage, a defined benefit plan, a defined contribution plan and a time off policy. The Funds are an affirmative action employer and encourage applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, or disability.
To apply, please send your resume to atcresumes@segalco.com. Please include job reference code 1024322DDIN in the subject line or with your application.
