Absence Consultant

The Absence Consultant will serve as a subject matter expert for both internal partners and external national account clients, providing guidance across a wide range of complex leave and disability programs, including FMLA, Sick Pay, Salary Continuance, Statutory Disability, Short-term Disability, Long-term Disability, Vacation and Paid Time-off (PTO), and other employer-sponsored leave programs. This role collaborates closely with internal teams and participates in complex program assessments, translating findings into actionable recommendations and high-quality client deliverables. The incumbent participates in client audits and documents findings.

Responsibilities

Serve as a subject matter expert for both internal partners and external national account clients, providing guidance across a wide range of complex leave and disability programs, including FMLA, Sick Pay, Salary Continuance, Statutory Disability, Short-term Disability, Long-term Disability, Vacation and Paid Time-off (PTO), and other employer-sponsored leave programs; Collaborate closely with internal teams and participate in complex program assessments; Translate findings into actionable recommendations and high-quality client deliverables; Participate in client audits and document findings; Provide valued-added consulting expertise on large, sophisticated Absence and Disability Management projects; Assist with vendor capability reviews and annual RFIs; Benchmarking analysis; Plan compliance and audit support; Deliver superior, consistent management and deliverables for assigned clients; Serve as consultant to Strategic Non-Medical Solutions client service team; Draft and manage project plans involving absence assessments and client teams; Accountable for development and delivery of final client deliverables; Manage client team expectations and raise appropriate issues to leadership; Interface with colleagues to ascertain broader business objectives; Develop trusted advisor relationships with internal and external stakeholders; Directly contribute to clients' success through applying subject matter expertise; Remain current on industry trends, leave legislation and vendor updates; Build relationships internally and collaborate effectively on cross-functional teams; Contribute to special projects as defined by leadership; Build and maintain library of Absence & Productivity projects, RFPs, templates, market data and other deliverables

Requirements

BA/BS degree in a related field, or equivalent work experience; 5-10 years of experience and success in the design/management of group disability and absence management plans gained in consulting, brokerage, carrier, and/or employer environments; Proven experience successfully managing multiple projects simultaneously and producing quality deliverables on time and within budget; Demonstrated success in managing client issues and relationships, including some experience in growing relationships with current clients; Relevant experience related to compliance and quality assurance protocols around leave, disability administration/management; Strong interpersonal and team skills; Polished and well developed oral and written communication skills; Self-starter attitude and ability to work with ambiguity; Flexibility and proven ability to diagnose and resolve issues; Strong analytical and creative skills; The ability to see the "big picture," leveraging the resources of related practices to address the clients' business challenges; Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Excel, Teams, Word, PPT, Publisher) and Salesforce; Ability to travel between 20-40% dependent on client activities and needs of the business; Group Insurance industry knowledge, Strong background in disability insurance and absence management, Strong interpersonal and communication skills, organizational skills; Must be able to work independently; proven track record of success, must enjoy a fast paced, entrepreneurial culture

Benefits

Health Benefits: Medical/Rx, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Disability Insurance; Financial Benefits: ESPP; 401k; Student Loan Assistance; Tuition Reimbursement; Mental Health & Wellness: Free Mental Health & Enhanced Advocacy Services; Beyond Benefits: Paid Time Off, Holidays, Preferred Partner Discounts and more