Benefits Operations Manager Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

ROLE DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

This Senior Manager, Benefits is responsible for leading SES’s global benefits, wellbeing and leave offering while also serving as the lead benefits workstream owner for harmonization of benefit programs. The incumbent ensures the effective design, delivery and governance of global benefits programs, with particular focus on benefits operations, compliance, vendor management, employee communications and service delivery. This role is hands-on lead responsible for shaping and executing a forward-looking, innovative global benefits strategy that enhances the employee experience, supports business growth, and ensures long-term sustainability. The incumbent requires strong technical benefits expertise, project leadership capability and the ability to balance compliance, cost, operational excellence and change management in a fast-moving environment, with strong communication and stakeholder management skills.

Operating in a highly collaborative environment, this leader will translate strategy into scalable execution, guide and develop a high-performing team, and partner cross-functionally to ensure programs reflect the company’s values, culture, and commitment to innovation and employee well-being.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES / KEY RESULT AREAS

• Lead the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of health, wellness, retirement, and leave programs across the U.S., LATAM, EMEA, and Asia Pac, ensuring alignment with business needs, employee expectations, and local market practices
• Drive operational excellence by optimizing benefits processes and leveraging technology and data analytics to expand program reach, enhance the employee experience, and improve efficiency, scalability, and decision-making
• Own and evolve the global benefits communication strategy, ensuring clear, inclusive, and impactful messaging that increases employee understanding, engagement, and perceived value of the total rewards offering
• Partner cross-functionally with HR, Finance, Legal, Procurement, IT, and regional teams to ensure compliance, financial discipline, and seamless program delivery across geographies
• Ensure strong financial stewardship and fiduciary integrity of global benefits programs, including oversight of funding strategies, vendor performance, and risk management practices
• Lead vendor strategy and governance, including selection, performance management, and optimization of broker and partner relationships to deliver high-quality, cost-effective solutions
• Establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs), leveraging employee feedback, benchmarking, and data insights to continuously improve program effectiveness and ROI
• Identify and address operational and administrative challenges, developing scalable, cross-functional and cross-regional solutions that enhance efficiency and service delivery
• Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing global benefits team, building capabilities in strategic thinking, innovation, and execution while fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement

COMPETENCIES

• Proven ability to develop and execute enterprise-level strategies while maintaining strong operational oversight and delivering measurable outcomes
• Experience managing U.S. Pension Plan and Retiree Medical. Managing aspects of SOX controls, annual audits, HRA development, retiree premiums and collaborating with administrators, actuaries and auditors
• Deep expertise in global benefits design, governance, and compliance across key regions (U.S., LATAM, EMEA, Asia Pac), with the ability to navigate diverse regulatory and cultural environments
• Demonstrated success driving innovation and transformation, including the use of technology, digital platforms, data analytics, and automation to modernize benefits delivery and improve employee experience
• Strong financial acumen, including experience managing budgets, funding strategies, vendor negotiations, and cost optimization initiatives
• Track record of balancing strategic leadership with hands-on execution, with a pragmatic approach to problem-solving and implementation
• Experience leading and developing high-performing teams, with the ability to inspire, coach, and build organizational capability in a global environment
• Exceptional communication and influencing skills, with the ability to translate complex concepts into clear, compelling messages for diverse audiences, including senior leadership
• •       Strong stakeholder management skills, with demonstrated ability to build trusted partnerships and drive alignment across functions and regions

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field
• Minimum 8 years of progressive experience in benefits administration or total rewards, with at least 3 years in a managerial role
• Demonstrated experience designing, implementing, and managing benefits programs in a multinational environment
• Strong knowledge of benefits regulations and compliance requirements
• Experience with HRIS and benefits technology platforms will be considered an advantage
• Experience working with external vendors, brokers, and cross-functional stakeholders
• Comfort using AI and automation tools to enhance workflows and productivity
• Fluency in English, with proficiency in additional languages considered a plus

OTHER KEY REQUIREMENTS / COMMENTS

• Occasional international travel may be required
• Ability to work across multiple time zones

The salary range for this full-time position is $180,000 - 210,000.Salary ranges are determined by role, level, and geographic location. Individual compensation within the range is determined based on work location and a variety of factors, including job-related skills, experience, qualifications, and relevant education or training.Additional compensation and benefits may apply depending on the location and terms of employment.