Leave Program Manager

Patterson Dental Supply•St Paul, MN

35d•$85,500 - $113,967•Hybrid

About The Position

Patterson is seeking a Leave Program Manager to design, implement, administer, and continuously improve leave of absence, disability, paid leave, accommodation, and return-to-work programs. This role ensures compliance with regulations, serves as the subject matter expert, oversees third-party administrators, and leads cross-functional initiatives to enhance program effectiveness and employee experience. The position involves partnering with various departments to balance employee needs with business requirements and analyzing data to drive strategic improvements.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources, or a related field, or equivalent education and/or experience.
7 years of progressive experience in leave of absence, disability, accommodation administration, or related benefits experience.
5 years of experience administering multi-state short-term disability, long-term disability, and state paid leave programs.
Experience working with an outsourced leave management program or third-party administrator supporting leave and accommodation requests.
Proven experience interpreting and applying federal and state leave, disability, and accommodation regulations, including FMLA, ADA, COBRA, ERISA, HIPAA, ACA, state paid leave programs, and related compliance requirements.
Ability to interpret complex regulations, assess risk, and make sound decisions to resolve sensitive employee situations.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to explain complex policies and requirements to diverse audiences both internally and externally.
Demonstrated ability to build collaborative relationships and influence outcomes across multiple functions.
Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and develop data-driven recommendations.
Strong problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills with a focus on achieving timely and practical solutions.
Demonstrated experience leading complex projects, managing competing priorities, and executing initiatives; experience leading program improvements, implementations or vendor transitions.
Demonstrated discretion, professionalism, and ability to handle highly sensitive and confidential information.

Nice To Haves

Experience with HRIS, leave management, and case management systems.
Professional certification in Human Resources, Benefits, Disability Management, or Leave Administration (e.g., SHRM, HRCI, CLMS, CDMS).

Responsibilities

Accountable for the design, implementation, administration, and ongoing evaluation of leave of absence, disability, paid leave, accommodation, and return-to-work programs to ensure regulatory compliance, operational effectiveness, and a positive employee experience.
Serve as the enterprise subject matter expert for protected leave, disability, accommodation, and return-to-work programs, providing consultation and direction on highly complex cases, escalated issues, and policy interpretation.
Lead the oversight and vendor management of third-party administrators, establishing service expectations, resolving escalated issues, monitoring compliance, and driving continuous improvements in service delivery and program outcomes.
Develop, maintain, and update leave-related policies, procedures, and program documentation, ensuring alignment with changing federal, state, and local laws and organizational objectives.
Partner with Human Resources, Legal, Payroll, Risk Management, Operations, and other stakeholders to implement compliant and effective leave and accommodation solutions that balance employee needs with business requirements.
Analyze program data, trends, regulatory developments, and operational metrics to identify risks, recommend strategic improvements, and implement solutions that enhance compliance, employee support, and organizational effectiveness.
Direct the development and administration of return-to-work and workplace accommodation programs, promoting timely and sustainable employee reintegration while reducing lost work time and supporting workforce productivity.
Provide guidance, coaching, and technical expertise to team members, managers, and HR partners regarding leave administration processes, regulatory requirements, and best practices.
Comply with Company and department policies and standards; performs other duties as assigned.