Benefits Consultant

About the Opportunity

Our client is an independent employee benefits consulting and actuarial services firm that serves as a trusted advisor to complex health and welfare benefit plans. The firm partners with clients to design, implement, evaluate, and communicate innovative and cost-effective benefit strategies tailored to their unique needs. Clients rely on the firm's deep expertise, strategic guidance, and collaborative approach to help achieve their long-term objectives.

Position Summary

The Health & Welfare Benefits Consultant will develop and manage client relationships, lead consulting engagements, coordinate with internal teams, and contribute to business growth initiatives. This individual will serve as a strategic advisor to clients while overseeing ongoing consulting activities and special projects.

Key Responsibilities

Client Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients and key stakeholders.
• Understand client challenges, anticipate needs, and develop strategic solutions.
• Participate in regular client meetings and presentations.
• Collaborate with external partners, including administrators, legal advisors, auditors, and other professional service providers.
• Effectively communicate complex information in a practical and actionable manner.

Consulting Leadership

• Lead and manage client projects from planning through execution.
• Coordinate internal consulting teams to deliver high-quality client service.
• Provide strategic guidance on industry trends, regulatory developments, and emerging benefits issues.
• Manage relationships with carriers, vendors, and benefit providers, including renewals and negotiations.
• Oversee underwriting, financial forecasting, cost analysis, and benefit modeling activities.

Business Development & Client Growth

• Manage client revenue and profitability objectives.
• Partner with internal subject matter experts to deliver comprehensive service solutions.
• Expand and strengthen client relationships and professional networks.
• Participate in new business development efforts and client retention strategies.

Professional Development

• Participate in continuing education and professional development opportunities.
• Contribute to practice meetings, knowledge sharing, and strategic initiatives.
• Mentor and support junior staff members.
• Assist with special projects and firm-wide initiatives.

Qualifications

Required Skills

• Experience reviewing financial reports, renewal projections, underwriting analyses, and long-term cost forecasts.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Proven presentation skills with the ability to simplify complex concepts for diverse audiences.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Willingness to travel as needed to meet with clients and prospects.
• Demonstrated success building trusted relationships with clients and colleagues.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, and related business software.

Experience & Education

• Minimum 8+ years of experience in employee benefits consulting, health and welfare consulting, actuarial consulting, or a related professional services environment.
• Experience supporting complex health and welfare benefit programs, including collectively bargained, public sector, or similarly structured benefit plans.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Actuarial credentials are strongly preferred.
• Appropriate insurance licensing preferred.
• CEBS designation is a plus.