Manager, Benefits

Manager, Benefits

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.

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

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

Support Leave of Absence Manager as needed to :

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

Qualifications

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

Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) or similar professional certification

Experience in cannabis industry or other highly regulated industry

Project management experience

Additional Requirements

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

Green Thumb Pay Range

$100,000 - $125,000 USD