Skadden

International Benefits Specialist

New York Full time

We invite you to review our current business services professionals openings to learn about the opportunities available across the firm.

About Us

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP (Skadden) has forged a reputation as one of the most prestigious law firms in the world. By relying on innovation, intellect, teamwork and tenacity, our lawyers deliver the highest quality advice and novel solutions to our clients' legal issues. We are recognized as a global powerhouse for complex transactions, litigation/controversy issues, and regulatory matters, as well as for the open, collaborative relationships we build with clients. Our attorneys, who reflect diverse backgrounds and perspectives, collaborate seamlessly across 50-plus practices and 21 offices in the world’s major financial centers.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an International Benefits Specialist to join our Firm. Within this position, you will serve as the subject matter expert on international benefit plans and programs for partners and employees including supporting the design, development, implementation, communication, administration and compliance. This position will be based in our New York office and has a hybrid in-office/remote working schedule. Please note that the Firm will not sponsor applicants for work visas for this position.

  • Supports the planning and developing of various benefit plans including but not limited to the: a) international local benefits (health & welfare), b) U.S. expatriate and third-country national plans, and c) Firm-wide travel related benefit programs and policies. 
  • Maintains detailed database of all international benefit programs.
  • Conducts benefits orientations for international office locations as needed.
  • Performs the day-to-day administration of benefit plans as needed.
  • Conducts auditing functions to ensure data accuracy and integrity.
  • Work closely with brokers in conducting benchmark analysis to identify trends in industry and with competitors.  Research benefits best practices using market surveys, networking, and other sources of industry information, to recommend competitive and cost effective benefit offerings.  Develops and presents benchmarking reports by gathering and analyzing benefits data.
  • Manages third-party vendor relationships to ensure efficient and effective administration of all benefit plans.
  • Support day-to-day project management including: (i) scheduling meetings with carriers and brokers and maintaining meeting records and notes and (ii) tracking take-away items from meetings and following up with stakeholders for associated items.  Assist with the review of materials provided.
  • Monitors, analyzes and researches utilization, experience and trends.  Develops recommendations for Plan revisions to existing benefits and the implementation of new benefits as appropriate and consistent with the Firm’s objectives and strategies.
  • Supports the maintenance of current benefit plans and the implementation of new programs
  • Develops strong relationships and works closely with the global HR business partners to review proposals for local offerings, provide guidance, and ensure that all benefits align with the global benefits philosophy.
  • Acts as subject matter expert regarding Firm-wide travel related benefit programs.  Assists personnel at all levels within the Firm on the available programs and securing the required travel documents. 
  • Supports the annual renewal processes for all international benefit plans and programs:  Partners and negotiates with benefit providers and brokers on annual renewals; creates census data spreadsheets; analyzes proposals and negotiates pricing and applicable contract terms, assists with developing the associated budget and financial analysis spreadsheets, and determines related HRIS system needs.
  • Reviews and reconciles vendor invoices and facilitates payment of invoices.
  • Maintains awareness of and analyzes current and developing legislation and regulations affecting global benefit plans to assess their potential impact to the Firm. 
  • Assists in developing and maintaining legal and compliance documents and governance procedures.
  • Assists personnel at all levels within the Firm on the available programs.
  • Research escalated issues.
  • Ensures data privacy, security and integrity of all benefits related information.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

  • Knowledge of Firm operation, policies and procedures.
  • Flexibility to adjust hours to meet operating needs of international office locations.
  • Pays attention to detail and high data accuracy.
  • Works well independently and takes initiative.
  • Strong written communication skills including exceptional grammar and proofreading ability.
  • Must be highly organized with ability to work well under pressure with the ability to manage multiple high-priorities in a fast-paced environment; flexible and adaptable; excellent time management, prioritization and respect for deadlines with the ability to be flexible and accommodate unforeseen priorities; consistently deliver timely and accurate work products, and respond with a sense of urgency.
  • Knowledge of international laws and regulations impacting benefits.
  • Strong computer skills; high proficiency in MS Word and MS Excel (experience using formulas, VLOOKUP, pivot tables and charts, etc.), HR systems, Database systems.
  • Strong mathematical and accounting skills; understanding of payroll and accounting functions, specifically related to their interaction with benefits.
  • Proven project management skills required; need to have taken projects from idea to implementation.
  • Ability to research, identify and implement solutions to business issues.
  • Keeps matters confidential.
  • Highly effective verbal and presentation skills.
  • Strong customer service and interpersonal skills.
  • Is a team player; deals courteously/effectively with others.

Education and Experience

  • Bachelor's degree and
  • A minimum of four (4) years of current health & welfare benefits administration related experience and at least one (1) year of current experience in international benefits.
  • A minimum of one (1) year of Workday benefits administration experience required

Culture & Life at Skadden
What makes Skadden special is our people and the culture, community and spirit of collaboration we have created. We believe in teamwork and inspiring each other to be our best in an atmosphere that promotes professionalism and excellence in all that we do. We know that inclusion and drawing on the strength of a wide spectrum of talent only make us better and is vital to the firm's success. Our goal is for everyone at the firm to enjoy a challenging career with opportunities for development and growth and to support the well-being of our attorneys and business services professionals.

Benefits

The overall well-being of our team is important to us.  We offer generous benefits to help you achieve wellness in all areas of your life. 

  • Competitive salaries and year-end discretionary bonuses.
  • Comprehensive health care (medical, dental, vision), savings plan/401(k) and voluntary benefits.
  • Generous paid time off.
  • Paid leave options, including parental.
  • In-classroom, remote, and on-demand learning and professional development opportunities.
  • Robust well-being classes and programs.
  • Opportunities to give back and make an impact in local communities.

For further details, please visit:  https://www.skadden.com/careers/staff/employee-benefits

The starting base salary for this position is expected to be within the range listed under Salary Details.  Actual salary will be determined based on skills, experience (to the extent relevant) and other-job related factors, consistent with applicable law.

Salary Details

$105,000 - $115,000

EEO Statement

Skadden is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  It does not discriminate against applicants or employees based on any legally impermissible factor including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, alienage or citizenship status, marital or familial status, domestic partnership status, caregiver status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, change of sex or transgender status, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual and reproductive health decisions, disability, any protected military or veteran status, or status as a victim of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault or offense, or stalking.

Applicants who require an accommodation during the application process should contact Lara Bell at (212) 735-2794.

Skadden Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

Skadden Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

Applicants Have Rights Under Federal Employment Law

Applicants Have Rights Under Federal Employment Law


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