Manager, Benefits

Green Thumb is seeking an experienced Benefits Manager to join our Total Rewards team. This role will work closely with the Director of Benefits on a wide range of strategic initiatives and projects while overseeing and providing direct supervision and guidance to a Benefits Specialist and managing the day-to-day administration of our comprehensive employee benefits programs with a high level of accuracy. The position ensures full compliance with all state and federal regulations including ACA, ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, ADA and FMLA and serves as a subject matter expert within the benefits function. The successful candidate will serve as the primary point of contact for all benefits-related inquiries, and play a critical role in supporting our employees in a demanding, fast-paced environment.

Management & Strategic Collaboration

* Partner closely with the Director of Benefits on strategic initiatives, program development, and organizational benefits objectives

* Provide direct supervision, coaching, and professional development to Benefits Specialist. Conduct performance reviews, set goals, and support career development.

* Lead cross-functional project teams and collaborate on benefits-related projects spanning multiple departments

* Drive process improvements and operational excellence within the benefits function

* Serve as escalation point for complex benefits issues and vendor management relationships

Benefits Administration

* Partner with Director of Benefits to design, implement, and manage comprehensive employee benefits programs including health, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, and retirement plans

* Partner with benefits vendors and broker to negotiate contracts, evaluate plan options, and ensure competitive offerings

* Oversee annual open enrollment process, including communication strategies, system updates, and employee education

* Conduct regular benefits plan analysis and cost management to optimize value for both employees and the organization

* Maintain accurate benefits records, monitor/maintain/update vendor file feeds and ensure seamless integration with HRIS system

Compliance Management

* Ensure full compliance with federal benefits regulations including ACA, ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, ADA, FMLA and all applicable state and local laws * Stay current with evolving cannabis industry regulations and their impact on employee benefits

* Prepare and file required regulatory reports and documentation

* Monitor all federal, state and local regulatory benefits/paid leave/sick leave updates and ensure timely, appropriate action is taken to ensure compliance * Conduct regular compliance audits and implement corrective measures as needed

* Collaborate with legal counsel on benefits-related compliance matters

ACA Compliance

* Partner with ACA vendor to monitor and maintain ACA compliance including affordability calculations, minimum value determinations, and reporting requirements

* Prepare and file Forms 1094-C and 1095-C annually

* Track employee eligibility and ensure proper enrollment processes

* Manage ACA penalty risk and optimization strategies

ERISA Administration

* Oversee ERISA plan administration including plan documents, summary plan descriptions, annual reporting and all related required participant notifications

* Ensure proper fiduciary responsibilities are met for retirement and welfare benefit plans

* Coordinate with third-party administrators to ensure timely Form 5500 filing

* Monitor 401(k) deferral changes to ensure accurate employee contributions

* Oversee all non-discrimination testing and take required corrective action Employee Communication & Support

* Serve as primary benefits subject matter expert for employees and management

* Develop and deliver benefits education programs and materials

* Resolve complex benefits issues and escalations

* Support total rewards communication strategies

Leave of Absence Support

Support Leave of Absence Manager as needed to:

* Administer all leave programs including FMLA, ADA, state family/medical leave and workers' compensation

* Partner with leave team, HR partners, employees and managers to facilitate smooth leave transitions and return-to-work processes

* Ensure proper documentation, certification, and compliance with all applicable leave laws

* Maintain confidential leave records and coordinate benefits continuation/premiums owed

Required Qualifications

* Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field; or equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience preferred

* 5+ years of large-employer (1000+ variable hour employees), progressive benefits administration experience

* 2+ years of supervisory or management experience

* Strong knowledge of state and federal benefits regulations (ACA, ERISA, COBRA, FMLA, ADA, HIPAA)

* Experience with benefits compliance testing, auditing and reporting

* Proficiency with HRIS systems, benefits administration platforms and vendor file management

* Experience managing vendor relationships

* Knowledge of state-specific benefits and leave laws

* Advanced data aptitude and attention to detail with advanced Excel capabilities

* Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills

* Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities

* Exceptional written and verbal communication skills

* Demonstrated ability to coach and develop team members

Preferred Qualifications

* Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) or similar professional certification
* Experience in cannabis industry or other highly regulated industry
* Project management experience

• Must passany and allrequired background checks
• Must be and remain compliant with all legal or company regulations for working in the industry
• Must be a minimum of 21 years of age