Benefits Manager at Virginia Union University – Richmond, Virginia

Virginia Union University (VUU) is a distinguished private institution founded in 1865 that proudly upholds a legacy of academic excellence and community engagement. With a historic 86-acre campus, it offers a dynamic and nurturing environment for its 1,568 undergraduate and graduate students. Virginia Union University is recognized in the 2024 edition of U.S. News & World Report, holding a prestigious position as #39 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Five fundamental principles (core values) guide Virginia Union University. Each principle is essential to our ability to provide a Best-In-Class educational experience for students, faculty, and staff. These principles help our community understand the right path to fulfilling our institution's mission. The principles are Innovation, Spiritual Formation, Integrity, Diversity & Inclusion, and Excellence.

Virginia Union University seeks a knowledgeable and detail-oriented Benefits Manager to oversee employee benefits programs, ensuring compliance with Virginia state laws and federal regulations. The Benefits Manager will develop, implement, and manage benefits policies while serving as the primary point of contact for employee benefits inquiries.

Key Responsibilities

• Administer and manage health, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement plans, disability, and other employee benefits programs.
• Ensure compliance with Virginia employment laws, including theVirginia Overtime Wage Act (VOWA), Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA),andWorkers' Compensationregulations.
• Serve as the primary liaison between the university, insurance providers, and third-party benefits administrators.
• Assistemployees withbenefits ofenrollment, changes, and claims resolution.
• Develop and conductbenefits-related training sessionsfor employees and new hires.
• Stay updated on legal changes affectingthe benefitsofadministration and recommend policy adjustments accordingly.
• Conduct audits and generate reports related tothe benefitsofusage, costs, and compliance.
• Collaborate withpayrollto ensureaccuratebenefits ofdeductions and processing.
• Manageannual open enrollmentprocesses, including communication, documentation, and vendor coordination.
• Handle leave administration, includingFMLA, disability, and paid/unpaidleave.
• Address employee concerns and provide guidanceregardingbenefit plan options.

Core Competencies

• Communication:Demonstratesclarity, professionalism, and respect in all written and verbal exchanges.
• Collaboration & Teamwork:Builds productive relationships; supports colleagues to achieve shared goals.
• Customer Service:Provides responsive, solution-oriented service to faculty, staff, and stakeholders.
• Financial Stewardship:Manages budgets responsibly, ensuring compliance and resource efficiency.
• Adaptability:Adjusts effectively to changing priorities or environments.
• Problem-Solving:Identifiesroot causes and proposes sustainable solutions.
• Professionalism:Demonstratespoise, respect, and reliability under all circumstances.
• Initiative:Takes proactive steps to improve outcomes without waiting for direction.
• Emotional Intelligence:Recognizes and manages one’s emotions and relationships effectively.
• Conflict Sensitivity:Anticipatesemotional undercurrents and navigates them constructively.

Education

• Bachelor's degree inHuman Resources, Business Administration,ora relatedfieldrequired. Master's degree preferred.
• Experience:Minimum offive (5) yearsof experience inbenefitsadministration,preferably inhigher educationor apublic sector organization.
• Certifications:Professional certification such asCEBS (Certified Employee Benefits Specialist), PHR (Professional in Human Resources),orSHRM-CPpreferred.
• Must be able to lift 10 pounds.

Application Process

Candidates are required to submit their resume, four professional references and a cover letter. The application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. A background investigation and reference check will be required prior to employment. For any questions or concerns, please contact Askhr@vuu.edu.