Manager, Benefits

Green Thumb Industries (GTI)•Chicago, IL

43d•$100,000 - $125,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Green Thumb is seeking an experienced Benefits Manager to join our Total Rewards team. This role will work closely with the Director of Benefits on a wide range of strategic initiatives and projects while overseeing and providing direct supervision and guidance to a Benefits Specialist and managing the day-to-day administration of our comprehensive employee benefits programs with a high level of accuracy. The position ensures full compliance with all state and federal regulations including ACA, ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, ADA and FMLA and serves as a subject matter expert within the benefits function. The successful candidate will serve as the primary point of contact for all benefits-related inquiries, and play a critical role in supporting our employees in a demanding, fast-paced environment.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field; or equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience preferred
5+ years of large-employer (1000+ variable hour employees), progressive benefits administration experience
2+ years of supervisory or management experience
Strong knowledge of state and federal benefits regulations (ACA, ERISA, COBRA, FMLA, ADA, HIPAA)
Experience with benefits compliance testing, auditing and reporting
Proficiency with HRIS systems, benefits administration platforms and vendor file management
Experience managing vendor relationships
Knowledge of state-specific benefits and leave laws
Advanced data aptitude and attention to detail with advanced Excel capabilities
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
Demonstrated ability to coach and develop team members
Must pass any and all required background checks
Must be and remain compliant with all legal or company regulations for working in the industry
Must be a minimum of 21 years of age

Nice To Haves

Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) or similar professional certification
Experience in cannabis industry or other highly regulated industry
Project management experience

Responsibilities

Partner closely with the Director of Benefits on strategic initiatives, program development, and organizational benefits objectives
Provide direct supervision, coaching, and professional development to Benefits Specialist. Conduct performance reviews, set goals, and support career development.
Lead cross-functional project teams and collaborate on benefits-related projects spanning multiple departments
Drive process improvements and operational excellence within the benefits function
Serve as escalation point for complex benefits issues and vendor management relationships
Partner with Director of Benefits to design, implement, and manage comprehensive employee benefits programs including health, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, and retirement plans
Partner with benefits vendors and broker to negotiate contracts, evaluate plan options, and ensure competitive offerings
Oversee annual open enrollment process, including communication strategies, system updates, and employee education
Conduct regular benefits plan analysis and cost management to optimize value for both employees and the organization
Maintain accurate benefits records, monitor/maintain/update vendor file feeds and ensure seamless integration with HRIS system
Ensure full compliance with federal benefits regulations including ACA, ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, ADA, FMLA and all applicable state and local laws • Stay current with evolving cannabis industry regulations and their impact on employee benefits
Prepare and file required regulatory reports and documentation
Monitor all federal, state and local regulatory benefits/paid leave/sick leave updates and ensure timely, appropriate action is taken to ensure compliance • Conduct regular compliance audits and implement corrective measures as needed
Collaborate with legal counsel on benefits-related compliance matters
Partner with ACA vendor to monitor and maintain ACA compliance including affordability calculations, minimum value determinations, and reporting requirements
Prepare and file Forms 1094-C and 1095-C annually
Track employee eligibility and ensure proper enrollment processes
Manage ACA penalty risk and optimization strategies
Oversee ERISA plan administration including plan documents, summary plan descriptions, annual reporting and all related required participant notifications
Ensure proper fiduciary responsibilities are met for retirement and welfare benefit plans
Coordinate with third-party administrators to ensure timely Form 5500 filing
Monitor 401(k) deferral changes to ensure accurate employee contributions
Oversee all non-discrimination testing and take required corrective action Employee Communication & Support
Serve as primary benefits subject matter expert for employees and management
Develop and deliver benefits education programs and materials
Resolve complex benefits issues and escalations
Support total rewards communication strategies
Administer all leave programs including FMLA, ADA, state family/medical leave and workers' compensation
Partner with leave team, HR partners, employees and managers to facilitate smooth leave transitions and return-to-work processes
Ensure proper documentation, certification, and compliance with all applicable leave laws
Maintain confidential leave records and coordinate benefits continuation/premiums owed