Director of Employee Benefits

Contributing to Cardinal Health Human Resources is essential in designing, implementing, and delivering programs and policies that include recruitment, talent management, diversity and inclusion, compensation, and benefits. This function proactively plans for long-term human resource needs that align with business strategies. The Benefits team works to create and manage competitive benefits plans that meet company goals and regulatory compliance. This job family engages with third-party vendors for benefits plan development and administration and collaborates with Internal Communications to educate employees and encourage enrollment. About the Role We are on the lookout for a proactive and strategic Director of Employee Benefits to spearhead the design, implementation, and management of our employee benefit programs. This key role will ensure that our benefit offerings are competitive, compliant with regulations, and in sync with our business objectives. The ideal candidate will have extensive knowledge in health and wellness benefits, retirement plans, Managed Service Organizations, and other employee services, while excelling in a fast-paced environment. This position will also oversee all elements of our multi-specialty MSO employee benefits plans, including the design, implementation, and management of health insurance, retirement plans, and other benefits, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations. Effective communication of benefits details to employees while maintaining cost-effectiveness for participating employers will be essential. Key Responsibilities Innovation: Identify opportunities to enhance our benefits programs, delivering a compelling and integrated experience for employees. Review the benefits portfolio periodically and benchmark against industry peers to maintain competitiveness and align with evolving workforce trends. Utilize data to design and adjust programs, ensuring our offerings attract, retain, and engage top talent. Continuously evaluate existing plans for competitiveness and effectiveness, recommending improvements as necessary. Financial Acumen: Analyze utilization and claims data to uncover cost savings or enhancements that optimize our benefits investment. Oversee annual benefits budgets and forecasts to ensure fiscal responsibility. Processes and Governance: Manage end-to-end benefits administration, including enrollment, eligibility, and claims resolution for a positive employee experience. Stay up-to-date with regulatory changes and industry trends to adapt benefits strategies and ensure compliance. Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, including ACA, ERISA, HIPAA, COBRA, and FMLA. Leverage digital solutions to streamline processes and focus team efforts on priority tasks. Mergers & Acquisitions: Manage benefit program design and implementation during acquisitions and divestitures. Leadership & Collaboration: Lead and inspire a high-performing benefits team, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. Partner with various teams to align benefits strategies with organizational goals, ensuring cohesive decision-making. Provide recommendations on benefits program changes to senior HR leadership based on analysis. Benefits Administration for MSO Manage the annual open enrollment process, developing effective communication strategies and employee education. Process benefit enrollments, changes, and terminations accurately and promptly. Monitor claims activity and address any issues with insurance providers. Maintain accurate employee benefits records and documentation. Compliance and Oversight: Keep updated on applicable regulations regarding health, welfare, and retirement plans, ensuring compliance. Conduct regular compliance audits to identify potential risks. Communication and Management: Develop and execute strategies to clearly communicate benefits packages and changes to employees. Collaborate with participating employers on their specific benefit needs and concerns. Hold regular meetings with stakeholders to discuss benefit plan performance and future strategies. Financial Management: Oversee and manage benefit budgets, forecasting costs and identifying potential savings. Analyze claims data to identify trends and areas for improvement. Prepare financial reports for participating employers. Qualifications Bachelor’s and advanced degree in a related field or equivalent work experience preferred. 12+ years of experience in a related field preferred. Prior supervisory experience, including 2+ years of people management experience. CBP and CEBS certification preferred. Expectations at this Level Provide leadership to managers and experienced professionals. Manage an organizational budget. Implement policies and procedures to achieve organizational goals. Assist in developing functional strategy. Make impactful decisions affecting processes, outcomes, and customers. Communicate with internal and external leaders, including senior management. Persuade others in sensitive situations while maintaining positive relationships. Salary & Benefits Anticipated salary range: $135,400 - $208,100. Bonus eligibility: Yes. Cardinal Health offers a wide variety of benefits and programs to support health and well-being, including: Medical, dental and vision coverage Paid time off plan Health savings account (HSA) 401k savings plan Access to wages before payday Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) Short- and long-term disability coverage Work-Life resources Paid parental leave Healthy lifestyle programs Application Closing Date The anticipated application window will close on 2/20/26. If interested, please submit your application as soon as possible. The salary range listed is an estimate. Pay at Cardinal Health is determined by multiple factors, including geographical location, relevant education, experience, skills, and internal pay equity. Candidates who are back-to-work, people with disabilities, those without a college degree, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Cardinal Health supports an inclusive workplace valuing diversity in thought, experience, and background. We celebrate the power of differences to create better solutions for our customers by ensuring employees can be their authentic selves each day. Cardinal Health is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. To read and review this privacy notice, click here.

Created: 2026-03-12