Manager, Benefits

The Role 

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 

 Management & Strategic Collaboration

• 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

Benefits Administration 

• 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

Compliance Management

• 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

ACA Compliance 

• 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

ERISA Administration

• 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

Leave of Absence Support

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  

Required 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

Preferred Qualifications

• 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