Benefits Client Service Team Lead

Position Summary

The Benefits Client Team Lead is responsible for overseeing client relationships and delivering high‑quality consulting services related to employee benefit programs. This role leads internal team members, drives benefit strategy and renewal activities, ensures regulatory compliance, and serves as the primary point of contact for clients. The position requires strong expertise in health & welfare benefits, excellent communication skills, and the ability to lead complex engagements in a fast‑paced consulting environment.

Key Responsibilities

Client Strategy & Consulting

• Lead and manage client engagements across health, welfare, and related benefit programs.
• Develop and present benefit strategies, plan design recommendations, renewal approaches, and benchmarking insights.
• Conduct financial analysis, evaluate plan performance, and propose cost‑management opportunities.
• Monitor regulatory changes and provide strategic guidance to clients on compliance and plan updates.
• Deliver clear, compelling client presentations and facilitate benefits‑related discussions.

Client Service Leadership

• Serve as the primary relationship manager for assigned clients, ensuring exceptional service delivery.
• Oversee and prioritize client deliverables, deadlines, and ongoing communications.
• Support clients with issue resolution, carrier escalations, and benefits‑related inquiries.
• Lead client meetings, including quarterly reviews, renewal discussions, and annual planning sessions.

Team & Project Management

• Set roles, responsibilities, and workflows for internal team members supporting each client.
• Manage project timelines to ensure on‑scope, on‑budget, and on‑schedule execution.
• Provide coaching and mentorship to consultants, analysts, and specialists.
• Ensure accuracy and quality across all client deliverables, reporting, and documentation.

Vendor & Market Management

• Partner with carriers and vendors to secure competitive coverage and favorable terms.
• Lead marketing and RFP processes, including gathering data, analyzing bids, and delivering recommendations.
• Review contracts, SPDs, and other plan materials for accuracy and alignment with client objectives.

Business Development

• Identify opportunities to expand services within existing accounts.
• Support proposal development and participate in new‑business presentations and prospecting efforts.
• Contribute insights that enhance the firm's benefits consulting tools, capabilities, and market offerings.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in business, human resources, finance, economics, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in employee benefits or health & welfare consulting.
• Proven experience managing mid‑to‑large employer client accounts.
• Consulting firm or brokerage experience strongly preferred.

Licensing

• California Life & Health License may be required depending on employer policy.

Skills & Competencies

• Deep knowledge of health, welfare, and voluntary benefits; strong understanding of plan funding and compliance.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Excel and standard business software.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and client‑facing skills.
• Ability to lead teams, manage complex projects, and drive strategic outcomes.
• Comfortable working in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment.

Work Environment

• Role is based in California; hybrid work schedules are common depending on employer policy.
• Periodic travel to client sites, industry meetings, or internal offices may be required.