Benefits Project Manager

FT-FULL TIME Exempt posted 10/27/09 KOHLER, WI Requirements Kohler Co., a world-class manufacturer is seeking to add to the Global Benefits Department. At Kohler Co., we continually seek motivated individuals who possess outstanding leadership qualities, and have highly developed communication skills. Passion, initiative and a desire for continuous improvement are also essential for success. Emphasis is placed on the development of these qualities in order to equip our associates with the skills necessary for career advancement within our organization. Under the supervision of the Director-Global Benefits, assists in the development and management of the Company's benefit plans. This includes assisting with the design, implementation and ongoing administration of all benefit plans, development of associate communications, responding to HR Specialist information requests, fulfilling management reporting requirements, counseling associates regarding plan provisions and coverage and coordinating with Kohler Konnect on processing terminations/retirements when necessary. Actively participate in team building activities to assist Global Benefits in meeting goals and objectives. This includes open communications at all levels, providing feedback, and presenting new ideas for improving the Benefits Center of Excellence (COE). SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES Serve as the subject matter expert and Center of Excellence team member on matters associated with the Company's benefit plans. Participate in the ongoing design and implementation of an effective employee communications and education program for the Kohler Co. benefit plans. This involves working with Kohler Co. Communications, Legal and third party vendors in the development of high impact participant communications which enhance associate's understanding and perception of the Kohler programs. This includes the Benefit Orientation Sessions for manufacturing and administrative associates and individualized ad hoc orientation programs presented at the request of HR Specialists. Performs cost/benefit analysis of current and proposed plans, and makes recommendations for plan modifications. Integrate, analyze and present trend analysis derived from data collected from multiple system databases and sources. Prepares executive reports for management defining problems, evaluation, and recommended corrective actions. Act as Global Benefits representative on multi-discipline project teams reviewing processes and procedures. This includes active participation in the development and implementation of practices and policies in line with the Human Resources objectives.. Participate in Global Benefits annual audits of the U.S. Pension and 401k plans. This includes answering questions and assisting in resolving any open issues that come out of the audit and looking always for further process improvements. Participate in the ongoing review and evaluation of Pension and 401k Plans. This includes the evaluation of plan provisions and the ongoing maintenance of Plan documents to ensure that they are in compliance with legal requirements and Corporate directives. Act as a liaison between vendors, Kohler management, providers, Kohler Konnect, associates and unions were applicable for appeals, quality efforts, resolve escalated eligibility issues, claim payments, etc. Ensuring quality customer service while maintaining a balance between the service and control aspects of the Benefit plans. This includes the following:
SPD updates, ACT's, Business Requirement Document process maintenance with vendors, etc. Utilizes the principals of Kohler Operating System (KO) to create and evaluate existing or proposed processes or systems. Assist in the management of the Company Web Site for benefit information. This includes posting, reviewing and keeping all content up to date. Coordinate RFP process, for vendor replacement and addition(s) - includes input with plan design, RFP submission and review of results, vendor selection, implementation of plan, contract review, communication, eligibility submission to vendor, enrollment, etc. Monitor vendor performance to ensure that contractual agreements are being met and analyze renewal proposals. Assist with the development of Health and Welfare plan price tags (will need to coordinate with consultant). Participate in the monitoring, analysis and development of non-U.S. benefit programs, including the review of government mandated benefits and Kohler Co. program offerings. This involves working with Sr. U.S., Compliance and International Benefits Specialist in the compilation and maintenance of specific benefit and vendor data in support management information needs. RELATIONSHIPS AND CONTACTS Supervisory Relationships:
Reports to the Director-Global Benefits Works closely with the Health & Welfare Benefits Manager and Pension & Savings Plan Manager Organization Relationships:
Frequent contact with the Senior US Compliance and International Benefits Specialist and members of the Global Benefits department. Regular contact with the Labor Relations, Medical, HR Systems Analyst, Payroll, Accounting, Tax, Internal Audit, Kohler Konnect and other corporate staff to ensure compliance with company policy and current legislation in the administration of employee benefits. Regular contact with other subsidiary locations and HR Specialist regarding benefits administration, vendor management and reporting. External Relationships:
Frequent contact with third party vendors for plan administration and eligibility issues. Regular contact with consultants in regards to project management. occasional contact with Kohler associates in responding to individual benefit related questions. Occasional contact with actuary with regard to actuarial data issues. Occasional contact with auditors in regard to their annual audit of the Pension and 401k Plans. occasional contact with Kohler ERISA Council. Occasional contact with attorneys and financial advisors retained by Kohler Co. and associates individual associates. Occasional contact with other companies for benchmarking. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS B.S with an emphasis in the area of accounting, finance or Human Resource Management required, Masters degree preferred. Minimum of five years of comprehensive benefits experience. Overall knowledge of Benefits programs, pension, 401k savings plan, Health and Welfare design and administration requirements and issues, compliance and legal understanding of HIPPA and ERISA. Prefer working knowledge of International Benefits. Established track record in project management. Must be self-starter who is able to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple concurrent projects, as well as lead the project. Strong quantitative, analytical skills and ability to apply analytical, creative problem solving. Good conceptual thinking, decision making and business acumen. Must be a solid team player with excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership competencies to effectively influence and negotiate with all levels of staff and management.