Director - Benefits Counsel
Our Client is a financial services organization that provides retirement, health, life insurance, and related benefits to clergy and lay employees, as well as property and casualty insurance and publishing services. The organization is committed to supporting its community's mission through compassionate service and financial stewardship.
Position Summary:
My client is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Director - Benefits Attorney with a strong background in employee benefits law and regulatory compliance. This role will support the legal and compliance functions related to health, disability, and pension benefit plans. The ideal candidate will have experience interpreting ERISA, HIPAA, the Internal Revenue Code, and other applicable federal and state laws.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide legal counsel on the design, administration, and compliance of employee benefit plans, including pension, health, and disability programs.
- Monitor and interpret changes in laws and regulations affecting employee benefits and advise internal stakeholders accordingly.
- Draft and review plan documents, policies, procedures, and participant communications.
- Support the Business Compliance unit in managing regulatory filings, audits, and internal reviews.
- Coordinate and support the first-level pension appeals process and Benefits Committee meetings.
- Serve as a subject matter expert on HIPAA compliance and privacy matters.
- Collaborate with internal departments including Legal, HR, Finance, and Operations to ensure compliance and mitigate risk.
Qualifications:
- J.D. from an accredited law school and admission to the New York State Bar (or eligibility for in-house counsel registration).
- Minimum of 5 years of experience practicing employee benefits law, preferably in a law firm or in-house legal department.
- Deep knowledge of ERISA, HIPAA, ACA, COBRA, and the Internal Revenue Code.
- Experience working with church plans or non-profit organizations is a plus.
- Strong analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a collaborative and mission-driven environment.
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