Compensation Manager

NTI Connect LLC•Downers Grove, IL

7h•$90,000 - $125,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Compensation Manager plays a critical role in designing, implementing, and managing competitive compensation programs that attract, motivate, and retain top talent within the wholesale trade industry. This position is responsible for ensuring that compensation strategies align with the company’s business objectives and comply with legal and regulatory requirements across the United States. The Compensation Manager will analyze market trends, conduct salary benchmarking, and develop incentive plans that drive employee performance and support organizational growth. Collaborating closely with HR, finance, and senior leadership, this role ensures compensation practices are equitable, transparent, and effectively communicated to employees. Ultimately, the Compensation Manager contributes to building a high-performing workforce by delivering compensation solutions that balance cost efficiency with employee satisfaction. This is a hybrid role based out of our Downers Grove, IL office.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field.
At least 5 years of experience in compensation management, preferably within the wholesale trade or related industries.
Strong knowledge of compensation principles, practices, and legal requirements in the United States.
Proficiency in compensation software and HRIS systems (ADP Workforce Now, Miter) as well as advanced Excel skills.
Demonstrated ability to analyze complex data and develop actionable compensation strategies.
Analytical skills daily to interpret compensation data, market trends, and internal pay structures to develop competitive and equitable pay programs.
Strong communication skills are essential for collaborating with cross-functional teams and presenting complex compensation information clearly to leadership and employees.
Proficiency with HRIS and compensation management software enables efficient administration and reporting of compensation plans.
Problem-solving skills are applied to address compensation-related challenges, ensuring compliance and alignment with business goals.
Project management skills support the successful execution of compensation initiatives and continuous improvement efforts.

Nice To Haves

Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) or similar certification.
Experience working in a unionized environment or with collective bargaining agreements.
Familiarity with international compensation practices and expatriate compensation.
Experience with incentive plan design and administration, including sales compensation.
Advanced degree such as an MBA or Master’s in Human Resources.

Responsibilities

Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive compensation programs including salary structures, base pay, bonuses, incentives, and equity plans tailored to the wholesale trade sector.
Conduct regular market analysis and salary benchmarking to ensure competitive positioning and compliance with industry standards and legal requirements.
Collaborate with HR business partners and leadership to design compensation strategies that support talent acquisition, retention, and employee engagement.
Manage the annual salary review process, including budgeting, communication, and execution of merit increases and variable pay adjustments.
Analyze compensation data and prepare detailed reports and presentations for senior management to inform decision-making.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local compensation laws and regulations, including wage and hour laws and reporting requirements.
Lead compensation-related projects and initiatives, including job evaluations, pay structure redesigns, and incentive plan development.
Provide guidance and training to HR teams and managers on compensation policies, practices, and systems.
Oversee the Human Resources Information System (HRIS) to ensure data accuracy, reporting, and process efficiency.