Job Details

Overview

The Strategic Benefits Consultant (Contract - 4-6 Months) provides senior-level consultative support to Cavender's HR team with a dual focus: (1) successful implementation of the UKG Benefits Administration module and (2) stable, compliant day-to-day benefits operations. This role partners closely with the Benefits Manager, HR, Payroll, IT, and external vendors to optimize plan design, processes, and employee experience during a period of system transition.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Support the Cavender's Culture and drive our Mission, Vision, and Values.
• Partner with the Benefits Manager to oversee and advise on the UKG Benefits Administration implementation, ensuring alignment with business needs, compliance standards, and employee experience goals.
• Provide guidance and support for day-to-day benefits administration, including health, welfare, retirement, and leave programs.
• Advise on plan design, compliance requirements, and process improvements to optimize benefits delivery.
• Serve as a subject matter expert for benefits operations and an escalation point for complex employee or vendor issues.
• Collaborate with HR, Payroll, IT, and external vendors to ensure accurate system integration and operational continuity.
• Lead or assist in system testing, validation, and quality assurance related to benefits setup and ongoing operations.
• Support the development of training and communication materials for employees, managers, and HR staff.
• Recommend process enhancements and automation opportunities within both existing operations and the new UKG platform.
• Monitor benefits compliance with ACA, ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, FMLA, and other applicable regulations.
• Provide consultative reporting and insights to HR leadership on benefits utilization, risks, and opportunities.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business, or related field required; Master's or HR certification (CEBS, SPHR, SHRM-SCP) strongly preferred.
• 8-10 years progressive benefits experience, including 3+ years in a senior/director/consultative capacity.
• Demonstrated success with HRIS benefits implementations (preferably UKG) and ongoing operations management.
• Deep knowledge of ACA, COBRA, ERISA, HIPAA, FMLA and related compliance.
• Strong consultative, project management, and change-management skills; ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Advanced analytical skills, attention to detail, confidentiality with sensitive data/PHI.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; HRIS reporting and configuration skills required.

Preferred Skills

• Experience in a multi-site or retail environment.
• Strong vendor/broker management experience.
• Ability to provide both strategic recommendations and hands-on support as needed.

• Track record of strengthening processes while partnering effectively with existing HR leadership and teams.

Cavender's is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, military status, national origin, sex, ancestry, age, sexual orientation, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, or any other personal characteristic protected under federal, state, or local law.

Cavender's will provide reasonable accommodations for persons with a disability upon request. If you have a disability and need assistance completing the application, please call Customer Service at (888) ### #### or visit your nearest Cavender's store.

Equal Opportunity Employer
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