Executive Compensation Specialist

Copeland; Dayton (OH); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental and vision coverage

401(k) and more

Flexible time off

Job summary

Copeland is seeking an Executive Compensation Specialist to shape and optimize total rewards. You will support executive compensation design and governance, including annual incentives and equity programs, and prepare materials for the Compensation Committee.

You will collaborate across functions, conduct market research, and ensure compliance with SEC/IRS rules. This role reports to the Director of Global Compensation and may require travel to company locations.

Qualifications

• Experience with executive compensation in a public company or reward consulting.
• Hands-on equity program experience.
• Strong analytical and modeling skills using market data.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; ability to present to leadership.

Responsibilities

• Support development, governance, and evolution of executive compensation programs.
• Conduct market research on industry trends and compensation practices.
• Administer annual incentive and equity programs.
• Benchmark against peers and provide insights.
• Create materials for senior leadership and the Compensation Committee.
• Develop clear communication materials for executive programs.
• Assist with compliance and documentation trails; prepare disclosures when needed.

Skills

Executive compensation

Equity programs

Market data analysis

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Fast-paced environment

Work authorization in US

Education

Bachelor’s degree in HR/Business/Finance

CCP designation (preferred)

Tools

Workday HCM

Job description

Executive Compensation Specialist

As an Executive Compensation Specialist, you will play a high-impact role in shaping and optimizing our organization’s total rewards programs. You’ll support executive compensation, including annual and long-term incentive design and administration, as well as the creation of high-quality materials for the Compensation Committee. Reporting directly to the Director of Global Compensation, you will collaborate with cross‑functional stakeholders and drive initiatives that attract, retain, and motivate top talent.

Responsibilities

• Support the development, evolution, and governance of executive compensation programs
• Conduct regular market research to stay informed about industry trends, best practices, and emerging compensation strategies
• Manage the administration of the annual incentive program and multiple equity programs
• Benchmark our compensation programs against industry peers and provide insights as appropriate
• Support the creation of high‑quality, decision‑ready materials for senior leadership and the Compensation Committee
• Lead the development of clear, compelling communication strategies and materials for executive compensation programs
• Support compliance with SEC regulations, IRS rules (e.g., 409A, 162(m)), and other relevant governance requirements
• Establish and uphold robust documentation processes and audit trails for executive compensation decisions
• Contribute to the preparation of public disclosures when relevant

Required Education, Experience & Skills

• Prior experience with executive compensation in a publicly traded company or in reward consulting
• Hands‑on experience with equity programs
• Strong analytical and modeling skills, with the ability to interpret market data and apply sound judgment in assessing tradeoffs
• Excellent communication and negotiation abilities
• Exceptional attention to detail with strong documentation discipline
• Ability to produce quality results in a highly matrixed, fast‑paced environment
• Maintains composure and efficiency in stressful situations
• Authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship now and in the future – sponsorship will not be provided for this role

Preferred Education, Experience & Skills

• Five (5) years of progressive compensation experience
• Prior experience in a large global company and/or in reward consulting
• Prior experience in a private‑equity portfolio company
• Prior experience supporting M&A and/or taking a company through an IPO
• Experience with Workday HCM
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred)
• Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) designation is a plus

Location

Ideally based in St. Louis. The role can be hybrid/flexible with candidates willing to travel on a regular basis to St. Louis and/or other company locations.

Work Authorization

Copeland will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States. This position does not offer sponsorship for work authorization. Individuals with temporary visas or requiring sponsorship now or in the future are not eligible for hire.

Benefits

Flexible and competitive benefits plans offer the right options to meet your individual/family needs: medical insurance plans, dental and vision coverage, 401(k) and more. Flexible time off plans, including paid parental leave, vacation and holiday leave.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Copeland is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status. We are committed to providing a workplace free of any discrimination or harassment. If you have a disability and are having difficulty accessing or using this website to apply for a position, please contact: [e-mail]