Senior Executive Compensation and Equity Specialist

AAON, Inc.•Tulsa, OK

About The Position

The Sr Executive Compensation & Equity Specialist develops, administers, and oversees programs that support competitive, equitable, and performance driven compensation for executives and key talent. This position ensures all executive pay and equity programs align with organizational strategy, market competitiveness, and regulatory requirements. The role partners with senior leadership and cross-functional teams to design and manage compensation approaches that support attraction, retention, and business performance. This position contributes to department objectives by providing expert analysis, compliance oversight, and program leadership for executive and equity compensation initiatives. Position Summary: The Senior Executive Compensation and Equity Specialist is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing executive compensation programs and equity plans that align with the organization’s strategic goals, attract top talent, and comply with regulatory requirements. This role partners closely with senior leadership, HR, Legal, and Finance to ensure competitive, equitable, and performance-driven compensation strategies for executives and key talent.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Finance, Business Administration, or related field; Master’s degree or CCP certification preferred.
7+ years of progressive experience in compensation, with a focus on executive and equity programs.
Deep understanding of compensation principles, equity vehicles, and regulatory frameworks.
Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Excel, HRIS, and equity administration platforms (Fidelity).
Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence senior stakeholders.
Experience supporting Compensation Committees and preparing executive-level materials.

Nice To Haves

Strategic thinker with a high level of integrity and discretion.
Detail-oriented and organized, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Responsibilities

Develop and maintain competitive executive compensation structures including base salary, annual incentives, and long-term equity awards.
Conduct market benchmarking and analysis using external survey data and peer group comparisons.
Support Compensation Committee materials and presentations, including pay-for-performance analysis and executive pay disclosures.
Administer equity compensation programs (e.g., RSUs, stock options, performance shares), including grant cycles, vesting schedules, and participant communications.
Collaborate with Legal and Finance to ensure compliance with SEC regulations, tax laws, and accounting standards.
Manage equity plan documentation, reporting, and system updates.
Ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations (e.g., SEC, IRS, FASB, Dodd-Frank).
Assist in preparation of executive compensation disclosures for proxy statements and other regulatory filings.
Monitor trends, legislative changes, and best practices in executive compensation and equity.
Partner with HR Business Partners, Talent Acquisition, and Total Rewards to support executive hiring, promotions, and retention strategies.
Provide guidance and education to senior leaders on compensation philosophy and equity programs.
Support M&A and corporate restructuring activities related to executive and equity compensation.