Position Overview:

Responsible for overseeing Leave of Absence Team and identifying, deploying and implementing strategy for leave management system and vendor solutions. Identify and work with company stakeholders to identify best solutions for managing absences and implement leave policy documentation and education and communication on changes. Design program management plans for execution by Leave Specialists.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manages the Leave of Absence team and directs the day to day operation of leave and absence management programs.
• Develops effective vendor management programs and recommends changes to current vendor relationships based on organizational need and vendor performance. Works with vendor to ensure proper transmission of information between HA and vendor for effective program management.
• Stay abreast of trends and innovations in the field of Leaves of Absence and keep current on legislative and regulatory issues at the State and Federal level (FMLA, Pregnancy Discrimination Act, ADA, TDI, LTD, Sick Leave Laws, etc.) also taking into consideration the provision of the various collective bargaining agreements
• Serves as the subject matter expert for leave program under the general direction and guidance of IDM Director with consultation from legal department.
• Designs and recommends changes in policy and procedures
• Oversees development of manager training and job aides to improve management and compliance of leaves. Maintains confidentiality of sensitive information; ensures compliance with HIPAA
• Provides mentoring, coaching, direction, support and guidance to Leave Specialists and Leave Coordinator
• Lead the effort to correctly identify roles and responsibilities for various leaves between operations managers and HR
• Conducts with internal and external audits as needed
• Looks for ways to continually improve leave of absence process based on feedback from stakeholders and communicates changes as needed
• Makes decisions on reasonable accommodations and interactive process
• Meets regularly with managers, labor relations and employee relations to develop sound strategies for a mutually beneficial resolution to workforce management
• Other duties as assigned

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree and 5 years of relevant experience in Human Resources or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum 3 years in Leave Administration or Absence Management
• PC literate with advanced proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Word and Excel
• Maintains confidentiality
• Demonstrated ability to be a self-starter, highly organized, detail-oriented, and accurate; proven success as someone with excellent follow through.
• Proven ability to handle fast-paced environment and multiple priorities.
• Must be able to regularly exercise discretion, handle conflict and be firm when required.
• Must be willing to travel occasionally and work beyond regular hours, including holidays and weekends.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills that demonstrate a proven ability to build/maintain an effective and positive professional relationship and partnership with all levels of the Company and third party service providers.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong analytical skills and demonstrated ability to think strategically