Senior Benefits Strategy & Programs Lead

Colonial-Williamsburg-Foundation; Williamsburg (VA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

Colonial Williamsburg Foundation in Williamsburg, VA seeks a senior benefits leader to oversee all aspects of the employee benefits portfolio and leave programs. The role focuses on strategic design, cost management, compliance, and vendor relations to maximize value for employees and the organization.

The position requires 7+ years in benefits with people management experience, deep knowledge of U.S. benefit programs, and proficiency with HRIS systems, including Workday.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in HR, business or related field preferred.
• Seven+ years in employee benefits with progressive responsibility.
• Two+ years of people management experience.
• Broad knowledge of U.S. employee benefits (health, retirement, leave).
• Strong compliance knowledge: ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, FMLA, ADA.
• Experience with HRIS and benefits administration systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead, manage, and develop the benefits team including coaching and development.
• Oversee day-to-day administration of medical, dental, vision, life, disability, 401(k) and other benefits.
• Provide strategic leadership balancing costs, plan competitiveness, and organizational goals.
• Oversee leave programs including FMLA, ADA, and disability leaves.
• Manage workers’ compensation program including claims and vendor relations.
• Lead renewals, open enrollment, plan design, and vendor negotiations.
• Implement and optimize Workday Benefits module with cross‑functional partners.
• Collaborate with Finance/Payroll for funding, deductions, and reporting.
• Coordinate with HRIS to configure and administer benefits in systems.
• Monitor utilization, costs, trends, and vendor performance.
• Ensure compliance with ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, FMLA, ADA, and state laws.
• Develop communications and educational materials for employees.
• Identify opportunities to improve processes, technology, and service delivery.
• Lead special benefits-related projects and system changes.
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.

Skills

Benefits administration

Leadership

Data analytics

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in HR or related field

Tools

Workday

HRIS

Job description

Colonial Williamsburg Foundation in Williamsburg, VA seeks a senior benefits leader to oversee all aspects of the employee benefits portfolio and leave programs. The role focuses on strategic design, cost management, compliance, and vendor relations to maximize value for employees and the organization.

The position requires 7+ years in benefits with people management experience, deep knowledge of U.S. benefit programs, and proficiency with HRIS systems, including Workday.