Responsible for analyzing and administering retirement and health and welfare benefit programs for contract and non-contract employeesSupports benefits manager with analysis of benefit plans, programs, issues and processesProvides assistance with compliance and communications, specifically 5500 filings, annual audits, non-discrimination testing and QDRO'sDetermines leave of absence process improvementsWorks with employee wellness programs and incentivesImplementations of new benefit plans and processesParticipate in worker's compensation claims reviews

Worked in a fast-paced human resources environment administering all Star Tribune Retirement Plans, including three pension plans and the company 401(k) Plan. Monitored and analyzed 401(k) vendor enrollments, loans, payments and transfers in an accurate and customer-focused manner while remaining compliant with plan document and legal requirements.Produced pension calculations according to plan documents, prepared correspondence and benefit statements.Worked with technical personnel to correct and test system changes.Assisted with producing annual pension valuation data.Main point of contact for employees, retirees and other human resources staff regarding retirement plans.Assisted with retiree medical open enrollment and ongoing administration of retiree health plans.Worked with survivors to administer retiree and deferred vested deaths benefits.

Promoted internally to manage 30+ team associates and 3 large client accountsConducted quarterly reviews and monthly coaching sessions with associates to ensure compliancewith evolving business directives and foster professional developmentConducted interviews and selected high-quality associates for new positionsTrained associates on clients’ health and pension plan design and proceduresMediated and resolved escalated client issues

Managed 4 client accounts and successfully demonstrated ability to build relationships, technicalknowledge, and effective written and oral communication skillsLed quarterly training sessions for 10 associates, which included reviewing associate’s calls forquality assurance and live coaching on callsProvided support to 2 team leads and 10 team associates to ensure all customer’s high-levelhealth and pension plan questions were answered efficiently and effectivelyInterpreted detailed billing summaries and direct bill invoices dailyBalanced time allowances based on business need and project budgetsEarned 5 incentive awards for effectively managing call volume and ensuring call quality

Provided administrative support to company president and 40+ employeesPlanned and coordinated corporate itineraries, special events, and travel arrangementsDirected distribution of company literature to stimulate client interest and sales leadsAnswered high volume, multi-line phones professionally and efficiently, prioritized anddocumented customer concerns in a detailed manner