Manager, Benefits

About AgFirst Farm Credit Bank

AgFirst Farm Credit Bank provides financing, as well as a range of technology and other services, to a network of agricultural lenders. Located on Main Street in Columbia, S.C., AgFirst is committed to providing a comfortable, inclusive work environment. We believe in investing in our employees so they can help lead our $42 billion company into the future.

Overview

The Benefits Manager is an experienced Human Resources professional who provides leadership and direction to the employee benefits team to develop, implement, administer, and maintain benefits programs, policies, and procedures. Ensures programs are equitable, meet employee needs, comply with legal requirements, and are cost effective. Works in close collaboration with other HR and Bank departments to ensure effective benefits program delivery. Develops benefits communications and addresses escalated issues in a timely manner. Manages benefits projects and drives to completion. Maintains effective and positive relations with Farm Credit Benefits Alliance (FCBA) contacts. Analyzes plan design and recommends enhancements and changes to optimize benefits offerings.

Essential Functions

Leads the analysis of benefits programs and recommends plan design changes based on objectives.
Manages relationships with benefit vendors, brokers, and consultants to ensure seamless plan operations, adhere to legal requirements, and evaluate effectiveness.
Ensures communication strategy to educate employees about their benefits, retirement planning, and related topics.
Fosters a culture of employee engagement by actively promoting the value and utilization of programs and resources available.
Leads a team to ensure accurate bookkeeping, benefit accounts are reconciled, charge outs and payments are approved timely and supports successful audits.
Collaborates with financial reporting department on annual OPEB budget and reporting requirements.
Coordinates with HRIS, Payroll, IT, Legal, Accounting, and other departments to support benefits needs for our business partners.
Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in human resources management (or related field).
Minimum 8 years of progressive experience in employee benefits administration including supervisory experience.
Positive teammate with excellent communication and project management skills.
Extensive benefits knowledge including vendor management, defined contribution and defined benefit plans, nonqualified retirement plans, a full suite of heath care and welfare benefit plans and knowledge of leave of absence administration.
Familiar with relevant benefits laws and regulations
Proficient in HRIS systems, benefit administration software, and MS Office Suite.
Preferred Qualifications

Certifications such as PHR, CEBS, or CBP