Executive Compensation Specialist

Copeland LP; St. Louis (MO); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Copeland LP is seeking an Executive Compensation Specialist in St. Louis to shape their total rewards programs, support executive compensation design and management, and develop communication strategies. This hybrid role may involve occasional travel to company locations.

The ideal candidate will have experience with equity programs, strong analytical and communication skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. A Bachelor’s degree and authorization to work in the U.S. are required.

Qualifications

• Prior experience with executive compensation in a publicly traded company or in reward consulting.
• Hands-on experience with equity programs.
• Five years of progressive compensation experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support development and governance of executive compensation programs.
• Conduct market research on compensation strategies.
• Manage annual incentive program and equity programs.

Skills

Analytical skills

Negotiation abilities

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Modeling skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance

Master’s degree (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.

• 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

Location

Ideally based in St.Louis, this role can be hybrid/flexible with occasional travel to St.Louis and/or other company locations.

Required Skills and Experience

• 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 Skills and Experience

• 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
• 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

Equal Opportunity & Work Authorization

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.

Copeland will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States. This position does not provide sponsorship for work authorization now or in the future.