Manager, Benefits, WSIB & Wellness

POSITION SUMMARY:

Reporting to the Senior Manager, OD & Total Rewards, the Manager, Benefits, WSIB & Wellness will play a lead role as part of our Total Rewards team in the design, implementation and management of our wellness strategy, WSIB program, group benefit plans, and any corresponding disability claims. The Manager will help us meet our objectives of providing an engaging employee experience in a cost-effective way.   

The Manager, Benefits, WSIB & Wellness provides ongoing direction, expertise and guidance as it relates to effective service delivery of Employee Benefit, Pension, EAP, Wellness and WSIB Programs within a complex unionized environment. The Manager is responsible for the management, development, implementation and evaluation of effective benefit/pension and wellness programs, WSIB program, and related policies and procedures within St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton (SJHH) & affiliates, including the following:

• Oversees the pension and benefits plan administration. Liaises with pension and benefits coordinators, carriers, etc. and builds/maintains effective relationships.
• Develops and advises on plan design, policies, processes and procedures; looks for 
  continuous improvement opportunities, and maintains compliance with applicable legislation and taxation rules. 
• Negotiates benefit and wellness contracts, changes, inclusive of rate adjustments with the benefit carrier.
• Provides leadership in determining impact of contractual /financial and operational implications of benefit changes to Employee/Labour Relations during collective bargaining and grievance process, ensuring compliance with legal, legislative and contractual requirements.
• Stays abreast of best practices and new trends related to benefits and pensions. Advises and supports management, prepares communications and establishes guidelines regarding programs.
• Oversees WSIB claims management and supports WSIB cost and NEER statements
• Manage cost reduction strategies through evaluation of WSIB Experience Rating, benefits and/or EAP utilization, and evaluation of wellness program effectiveness
• Leads the development of wellness initiatives company-wide to create a healthier environment to support attraction and retention as well as aiding in the management of healthcare costs.
• Liaises with Payroll/HRIS team with applicable processes; initiates changes to processes/ procedures to eliminate problems, improve productivity and enhance the employee experience.
• Works with Finance to prepare appropriate financial analyses and reporting.
• Establishes clear/measurable objectives for employees and evaluates results. Supports and promotes active employee involvement in departmental objectives and organization-wide initiatives. Provides an environment supportive of personal growth/development. Monitors/evaluates employee performance, provides feedback, addresses opportunities, etc. on a regular/as needed basis.
• Collaborates, participates on committees or working groups as appropriate.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelors Degree or equivalent
• 5 to 7 years progressively responsible experience in pension & benefits
• 3-5 years of direct experience in similar role / capacity
• Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS) certification preferred
• Knowledge of and experience with Workplace Safety and Insurance Board policies and direct benefit and pension plan experience utilizing quantitative analysis, regulatory compliance
• Experience working in healthcare considered an asset
• Experience managing budget development and management, financial benefits analysis
• Detail oriented, analytical, resourceful and demonstrates initiative
• Excellent written and verbal communication and organizational skills
• Ability to exercise initiative and good judgement with ability to prioritize multi-task, work under pressure and meet deadlines
• Solid MS Office skills with advanced excel skills
• Experience using HRIS. Infinium and Parklane considered an asset.
• Maintains confidentiality and release of information in accordance with hospital policy at all times and commit to applicable departmental and hospital policies and procedures at all times

HOURS OF WORK:
Monday-Friday, days