Manager, Benefits

Reporting to the Chief Human Resources Officer, this role will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Hospital’s benefit plans, processes and functions and related HR staff.  This role must work effectively with all areas in the people portfolio, regularly collaborating with the Manager, Compensation, Engagement and HR Strategy as well as other HR team members, Occupational Health and Safety, and Hospital operational leaders in support of the organization, its employees and the larger HR Strategy.

Summary of Duties

• Supports the administration of Sunnybrook’s benefits plans, ensuring contractual requirements are met
• Directly supervise and support the work of the Hospital’s Compensation and Benefits Advisors and the Total Rewards Specialist dedicated to the Benefits portfolio.
• Provide expert advice and guidance to the HR team on complex employee related transactions within the HRIS including new hires, transfers, benefit changes, leave of absences and terminations.
• Manage relationships with external vendors and consultants to ensure effective service delivery
• Participate in negotiation of agreements with insurance carriers and financial institutions for administration of benefits programs
• Support and lead the ongoing implementation of a new benefits provider and contract improvements
• Provide expertise to HR Team in matters related to benefits administration and eligibility.
• Provide advice and guidance to managers and other Human Resources staff with complex and non-routine problems or inquiries regarding Hospital benefits. 
• Works with the team to conduct research, identifying risks and benefits related to benefits program changes to supporting Sunnybrook’s strategic goals.
• Monitor competitive trends in group benefits, evaluate alternatives and costs, and work towards the improvement of delivery of benefit programs
• Provide benefits expertise in support of union negotiations, and participate in grievance and arbitration processes as they relate to employee benefit entitlements
• Liase with HOOPP as needed related to plan provisions and individual staff circumstances
• Additional responsibilities as required to support evolving organizational needs and priorities  

Qualifications/Skills

• Must have excellent written and oral communication skills, coupled with exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to be a team player.
• Must have a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management, Business Management or other equivalent education.
• CHRL Designation an asset.
• A minimum of 2 years’ of experience working in a supervisory role in compensation and benefits
• Strong preference given to unionized and healthcare experience
• Experience with HRIS and data management an asset
• Experience in leading HR programs and projects, including change management responsibilities. Strong ethical principles and an understanding of confidentiality
• Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and analyze problems and provide solutions
• Demonstrated independence and comfort in taking initiative on resolving issues within scope of responsibility