Benefits Specialist II

• The Benefits Specialist will lead and manage the design, implementation, and operations of our global benefits programs.
• Reporting to the Head of People Technology & Operations, this role will be responsible for benefit strategy, budgeting, compliance, and governance across the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, and France.
• This position plays a critical role in ensuring our benefits offerings are competitive, compliant, and aligned with our organizational values and strategy.

• Lead the development and implementation of comprehensive, competitive, and cost-effective benefits strategies across the US, UK, Germany, and France.
• Align local country benefits programs with global corporate philosophy and regional regulatory requirements.

• Oversee day-to-day global benefits operations, including vendor management, plan administration, and annual renewals.
• Serve as the escalation point for complex benefits issues and ensure timely and accurate resolution.

• Prepare and present benefits strategy, program changes, and renewals for Benefit Committee approval.
• Ensure compliance with all local regulations, laws, and reporting requirements in each country of operation.

• Develop and manage the global benefits budget and support regular forecasting activities.
• Analyze trends and utilization to optimize plan design and cost efficiency.

• Partner closely with Finance, Legal, Payroll, and HR Business Partners to ensure integrated delivery of benefits programs.
• Collaborate with Bayer and BlueRock benefits teams to further alignment and integration.

• Lead the communication of benefits offerings to employees through multiple channels (e.g., open enrollment, onboarding, intranet).
• Optimize infrastructure and support to ensure employees understand and can maximize the value of their benefits.

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field Preferred; Master's or relevant certification (e.g., CEBS, GPHR) a plus.
• Minimum 3–5 years of progressive experience in global benefits strategy and operations, preferably within the biotech or life sciences industry.
• Deep knowledge of benefits regulations and practices in the US, UK, Germany, and France.
• Experience preparing and presenting materials to senior leadership and/or governance committees.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing benefits budgets and vendor contracts.
• Exceptional project management, analytical, and interpersonal skills.
• Comfortable operating in a matrixed organization with a parent company structure.
• High level of discretion and professionalism in handling sensitive employee data and confidential topics.

akarsh.yathiraj@leadstackinc.com