Job Description

Our client, a leading law firm known for our collaborative culture, high standards, and commitment to excellence is looking for an experienced Benefits & Retirement Manager to oversee the daily administration of their U.S. and international benefits programs. In this role you will be responsible for ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations, and enhancing the employee benefits experience across the firm.

Position Summary

Reporting to the Director of Compensation & Benefits, the Benefits Manager will lead the administration and compliance of the firm’s health, welfare, and retirement plans. You will serve as the Workday benefits module subject matter expert, oversee benefits operations, and supervise the Benefits Assistant. This role requires deep knowledge of benefits compliance, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to partner effectively with HR, Finance, and firm leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Benefits Administration & Compliance

• Manage all aspects of benefits programs, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, retirement, and partner-specific plans.

• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local laws, including ACA, ERISA, HIPAA, COBRA, and DC-specific regulations.

• Lead annual governmental filings such as CMS, Form 5500, PBGC premiums, and required notices.

Retirement & Partner Benefits

• Oversee all retirement plan processes, including actuarial valuations, financial audits, and non-discrimination testing.

• Review quarterly profit-sharing contribution calculations and administer annual Cash Balance Plan distributions.

• Manage Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) and partner disability programs.

Workday Benefits Module Oversight

• Serve as the primary liaison with the HRIS team for all Workday configuration and benefits functionality.

• Lead issue resolution, system enhancements, Open Enrollment setup, and benefits integration file updates.

• Ensure accuracy of benefits data and system reporting.

Operations & Leadership

• Supervise and mentor the Benefits Assistant, fostering a high-performance, service-focused culture.

• Review and reconcile all monthly benefits invoices for accuracy.

• Serve as the benefits subject matter expert for employees, managers, and HR colleagues.

• Assist with partner onboarding and orientations as needed.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years of progressive benefits administration experience; prior supervisory experience preferred.

• Law firm or professional services experience strongly desired.

• Bachelor’s degree preferred.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; Intermediate to Advanced Excel skills required.

• Experience with Workday HRMS highly desirable.

• Strong knowledge of benefits compliance regulations and best practices.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with proven ability to interact across all levels of an organization.

• High level of discretion and integrity in handling confidential information.

• For immediate consideration or information on other exciting roles please reach out to James Martinos. Please send your resume to jmartinos@friedmanwilliams.com and call James on 732-965-1094.