Director Global Benefits

Job Summary

The Director of Global Benefits is a strategic leader responsible for designing, managing, and evolving the organization’s global benefits strategy across all countries of operation. This role ensures that benefit programs are competitive, compliant, cost‑effective, culturally relevant, and aligned with the company’s total rewards philosophy. The Director partners closely with regional HR teams, Finance, Legal, and executive leadership to drive global harmonization, optimize vendor relationships, and support employee wellbeing worldwide.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Global Strategy & Program Leadership

• Develop and execute a comprehensive global benefits strategy that supports business goals, talent attraction, retention, and employee wellbeing.
• Design and manage benefit programs across markets (health, retirement, insurance, time‑off, wellness, and ancillary benefits).
• Lead global benefit harmonization efforts while ensuring local cultural and regulatory relevance.
• Serve as the primary internal advisor on global benefits trends, risks, and opportunities.

Governance, Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure all plans comply with local regulations, labor laws, and statutory requirements in each country.
• Partner with Legal and external counsel to manage compliance audits, filings, and plan documentation.
• Evaluate governance structures for benefit plans, including retirement plan fiduciary duties.

Vendor & Financial Management

• Oversee global vendors, brokers, and insurance providers; lead RFPs and contract negotiations to drive quality and cost efficiency.
• Develop and manage benefits budgets and multi‑year financial projections.
• Analyse and monitor plan performance, utilization, costs, and population health trends.
• Other projects and duties as requested by management.

Education and Experience

• 18+ years of progressive experience in global benefits management.
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• Certifications such as CEBS, GPHR, CCP.

Knowledge, Skills, and Competencies

• Expertise across global health, retirement, insurance, wellbeing, and leave programs.
• Knowledge of regulatory frameworks across the U.S., EMEA, APAC, LATAM.
• Experience managing global vendors and large‑scale negotiations.
• Strong analytical and communication skills with senior‑level influence.
• Experience with M&A or international expansion.
• History of implementing innovative wellbeing or harmonization initiatives
• Leadership experience with high‑performing teams.