Leave Management Process & Operations Lead

Goodyear; Akron (OH); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Goodyear in Akron, OH, seeks a Leave Management Process and Operations Lead to oversee disability claims, FMLA processes, and compliance with state and local leave policies. You will coach the Leave Analyst team and ensure accurate administration of leave programs while coordinating with HR, Legal, and external partners.

The role focuses on improving processes, reducing legal risk, and delivering high-quality employee support during life events.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with significant experience in Human Resources or Finance.
• 5+ years of progressive experience managing leave of absence, disability, or related HR operations.
• Experience with complex leave regulations including FMLA and state/local laws.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coach the Leave Analyst team, coaching, training, and resolving escalated or complex leave cases.
• Oversee end-to-end administration of leave programs (FMLA, disability, paid leave) to ensure accuracy, compliance, and strong service delivery.
• Identify trends, risks, and gaps; drive continuous process improvements to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
• Perform quality audits and reviews of leave cases to ensure adherence to policies and regulatory requirements.
• Analyze and report on leave data to inform leadership decisions and improve program performance.
• Maintain and update leave policies and documentation coordinating with HR, Legal, and external partners.

Skills

HR operations

FMLA compliance

Leave management

Education

Bachelor's degree in HR/Finance

Job description

The Leave Management Process and Operations Lead manages and oversees leave of absence programs, including disability claims, FMLA processes, and compliance with state and local leave policies. The role provides high-level support to employees, HR partners, and external vendors while ensuring accurate and efficient administration of leave programs. It leads and coaches the Leave Analyst team, handles escalated and sensitive cases, and monitors performance to maintain service quality. The position also drives process improvements, ensures compliance through audits and reporting, and maintains up-to-date leave policies and program documentation.Why This Role MattersEnsures compliant, efficient management of leave of absence programs, reducing legal risk and supporting consistent application of policies across the organization.Delivers high-quality employee and HR support, improving the overall employee experience during critical life events such as medical or personal leave.Drives operational excellence by leading the Leave Analyst team, resolving complex cases, and identifying trends to continuously improve processes and performance.Maintains accurate reporting, audits, and policy updates, enabling informed decision-making and alignment with evolving regulatory and business requirements.What You Will DoLead and support the Leave Analyst team, including coaching, training, and resolving escalated or complex leave cases.Oversee end-to-end administration of leave programs (e.g., FMLA, disability, paid leave) to ensure accuracy, compliance, and strong service delivery.Identify trends, risks, and operational gaps, and drive continuous process improvements to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.Perform quality audits and reviews of leave cases to ensure adherence to policies, service standards, and regulatory requirements.Analyze and report on leave data to inform leadership decisions and improve program performance.Maintain and update leave policies and documentation while coordinating with HR, Legal, and external partners.What We’re Looking ForBachelor’s degree with significant experience in Human Resources or Finance, including direct involvement in leave management programs.5+ years of progressive experience managing leave of absence, disability, or related HR operations.Experience working with complex leave regulations, including FMLA and state/local leave laws, with strong compliance knowledge.Background in a unionized or manufacturing environment preferred, along with demonstrated analytical and operational expertise.Additional DetailsRelocation Available: No.Sponsorship Available: No.Typical Schedule: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm.#LI-MC2Goodyear is one of the world's largest tire companies. It employs about 63,000 people and manufactures its products in 48 facilities in 19 countries around the world. Its two Innovation Centers in Akron, Ohio, and Colmar-Berg, Luxembourg, strive to develop state-of-the-art products and services that set the technology and performance standard for the industry. For more information about Goodyear and its products, go to www.goodyear.com/corporateIf you need reasonable accommodation to complete the online application, or any other part of the employment process, please contact the Goodyear Candidate Care Line at 330.796.4500.Goodyear is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.