Benefits Account Manager - Public Sector

Risk Strategies•Palm Beach Gardens, FL

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Account Manager is responsible for managing and retaining a dedicated book of business focused on public sector clients who offer employee benefit programs consisting of group medical, dental, vision, pharmacy management, life, disability, and workplace benefits. This role serves as a long-term strategic partner and primary point of accountability while delivering consistently high-quality client experience. Day-to-day responsibilities include leading benefits implementation, compliance alignment, renewals, and Open Enrollment strategy. The Account Manager partners closely with public sector organizations to navigate regulatory complexity, multi‑layered governance and decision‑making environments, and long planning cycles—ensuring benefits programs are compliant, well‑executed, and aligned with agency or municipality goals. Success in this role requires a consultative mindset, strong public sector expertise, and the ability to proactively anticipate client needs, resolve issues, and strengthen trust over time.

Requirements

In‑depth knowledge of employee benefits programs, including group medical, dental, vision, pharmacy management, life, disability, and workplace benefits.
Working knowledge of public sector benefits environments, including governmental entities, municipalities, law enforcement agencies, special taxing districts, and school districts.
Understanding of benefits compliance and regulatory frameworks (e.g., ACA, ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA) and when to engage specialized third‑party expertise.
Knowledge of Open Enrollment planning and execution.
Familiarity with carrier and vendor operations, service models, and performance standards.
Understanding of public sector governance, multi‑layered decision‑making, and procurement considerations.
Strong client relationship management skills with the ability to build trust, credibility, and long‑term partnerships.
Strategic planning and execution skills to lead implementations, renewals, and Open Enrollment initiatives.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to translate complex benefits and compliance topics into clear, actionable guidance.
Skilled at facilitating decision‑making conversations with client leadership and internal teams.
Ability to manage and prioritize a book of business, balancing multiple deadlines and competing demands.
Effective vendor and carrier relationship management, including performance monitoring and issue escalation.
Strong problem‑solving and conflict‑resolution skills, particularly in high‑impact or time‑sensitive situations.
Ability to anticipate client needs, risks, and challenges before they escalate.
Ability to navigate complex organizational structures and long planning cycles common in public sector environments.
Ability to remain composed, decisive, and solutions‑focused when resolving escalated issues that impact trust or timing.
Ability to consistently deliver a high-quality client experience that supports retention and long‑term growth.
Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Human Resources, Finance, Risk Management, Public Administration, or a related field, or equivalent relevant work experience.
5+ years of experience in employee benefits account management, benefits consulting, brokerage, or a related client‑facing role.
Prior experience managing a book of business, with demonstrated accountability for client retention and relationship growth.
Active Life & Health Insurance license (or ability to obtain within first 90 days timeframe).

Nice To Haves

Advanced coursework or continuing education in employee benefits, compliance, or public sector administration is a plus.
Experience serving public sector clients (e.g., municipalities, school districts, counties, state agencies) preferred.
Professional designations are a plus: CEBS (Certified Employee Benefit Specialist), PHR / SPHR, SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP.

Responsibilities

Manage an assigned book of business with a focus on client retention, deepening relationships through thoughtful service delivery, trusted partnership, and utilization of department best practices.
Define overall implementation strategy, timelines, and success criteria in partnership with the client.
Lead implementation kickoffs and facilitate key decision‑making conversations across client leadership and their teams.
Lead carrier and vendor relationship management, ensuring service delivery, performance standards, and contractual obligations are consistently met.
Serve as the strategic point of coordination to ensure benefits solutions align to client objectives.
Lead the development and execution of client wellness strategies, coordinating with wellness partners and attending wellness‑related events to reinforce program goals and employee engagement.
Anticipate client risks, dependencies, and potential roadblocks; proactively adjust plans to maintain outcomes.
Act as a trusted advisor to the client, delivering clear guidance.
Resolve escalated issues that impact trust, timing, employee experience, or desired outcomes.
Maintain strong client relationships through proactive communication, accountability, and follow‑through.
Assess benefits compliance exposure and determine when third‑party expertise (legal, actuarial, compliance specialists) is required.
Ensure compliance considerations are fully incorporated into renewals, plan design changes, and ongoing benefits strategy discussions.
Define and align Open Enrollment strategy with the client, including timelines, approach, and success metrics.
Work cross‑functionally with Account Management, Analytics, and related internal teams to align on objectives, insights, and execution plans, ensuring consistent messaging and a cohesive client experience across all channels.