Senior Benefits Specialist - Chicago, IL

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Vela Software (Vela) acquires, manages, and builds mission-critical vertical market software businesses that are located throughout the world. We work with our companies to improve operations, grow through organic initiatives, and acquire businesses that can strengthen market positioning. Vela is an operating group of Constellation Software Inc. (TSX: CSU), a public company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange with 9 operating groups that provide software for over 100 vertical markets. Constellation Software Inc. (CSI) has consolidated revenues exceeding US$8 billion with greater than 50,000 employees located in over 250 offices worldwide. Further information about CSI can be found on our website. 

OVERVIEW OF ROLE

The Sr. Benefits Specialist ensures all operational aspects of our health and retirement benefit plans, including leave of absence programs, are operating efficiently and effectively and complying with regulatory requirements. This role is responsible for ensuring our team members in the US and Canada understand their benefit offerings and providing solutions to meet their needs. This position serves as the primary Vela contact for employees regarding benefits and works with HR Business Partners to answer employee questions and provide information regarding benefits. Additionally, this position manages the ongoing maintenance and administration of annual programs, including insurance benefits, 401(k), RRSP, CSI’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) and leave of absence processes

• Compliance: Ensure all benefits programs comply with federal, state, and local regulations, including ERISA, ACA, COBRA, and FMLA in the US and the Employment Standards Act, Canada Labour Code in Canada
• Data Analysis: Analyze benefits data and trends to assess the effectiveness of programs and make recommendations for improvements.
• Communication: Develop and deliver communication material for benefits orientations, open enrollment, and ongoing benefits education to employees and HR Business Partners. Address employee queries, resolve issues and provide counseling on benefits-related matters.
• Reporting: Prepare reports for management on benefits utilization, trends, and recommendations for enhancements; prepares and submits weekly vendor census uploads
• Employee Support: Serve as the primary point of contact for employee inquiries regarding benefits, addressing concerns and providing guidance.
• Leave Management: Administer company leave programs, including FMLA, Maternity/Parental leaves and STD. Guide employees through the leave process, ensuing compliance with company policies and applicable federal, state, local and provincial laws.
•  Vendor Management: Manage relationships with benefits vendors and providers, and ensuring service delivery meets organizational standards

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage all day-to-day benefits operations, including responding to emails from vendors and Team Members including HR Business Partners.
• Administers the 401(k) savings plan, including weekly deferrals and loan changes and annual audit.
• Work with third party vendors to administers and track LOA cases, ensuring compliance with federal, state, local, provincial and company policies while supporting team members throughout the process.
• Coordinate payroll payments for team members while on leave to ensure accurate pay.
• Manage annual open enrollment and ensure system and communications are accurate and ready for Team Members enrollment
• Works closely with company benefits committee, benefits vendors and broker to ensure all benefits plans are operating as designed
• Engages in regular meetings with benefits committee, broker and carrier.
• Develop and maintain all benefits processes and documentation.
• Perform adhoc payroll projects as assigned 

QUALIFICATIONS

• 5 years of experience in benefits administration, leave management, or related HR function.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Human Resources, or related field preferred.
• Knowledge of US federal and state leave laws, such as FMLA, ADA, Canada’s Employment Standards Act, and other applicable regulations.
• Strong MS Office, particularly Excel (pivot tables, lookups,)
• Strong attention to detail and organization skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work well with employees at all levels.
• Proficiency with HRIS and benefits management software; experience with Dayforce is a plus.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive employee information with discretion.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to handle complex benefits and leave situations.
• Ability to travel when needed