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Position Overview:Lambert Nemec Group is partnering with a large, privately held Canadian organization to recruit a Head of Employee Benefits Strategy & Programs. This role is designed for a seasoned benefits professional who understands the business side of group benefits. The ideal candidate brings deep experience working with employers, insurers, or brokerage firms on benefit negotiations, renewals, plan design, and cost management.This position offers the opportunity to transition from an advisory or consulting environment into a strategic leadership role within a growing organization. The successful candidate will lead the design, negotiation, and oversight of benefits programs supporting thousands of employees across Canada while developing internal capability that has traditionally been supported by external brokers.The role is based in the Prairie Provinces and requires full-time, in-office presence. Candidates located elsewhere in Canada are encouraged to apply; relocation assistance will be provided for the successful candidate.This is an excellent opportunity for someone currently working in group benefits consulting, insurance, or senior benefits management who wants to take ownership of a national benefits strategy while building strong internal processes and leading a small team.Key Responsibilities:Lead the design, development, and management of pension and employee benefits programs across the organizationOversee annual market reviews, renewals, and negotiations with insurance carriers and benefit providersAnalyze plan performance, claims trends, reserves, and cost drivers to guide strategic decisionsPartner with leadership to evaluate benefit plan design, cost optimization, and long-term program sustainabilityDevelop strategies to improve benefits offerings, including exploring flexible plan structures and program enhancementsLead vendor management and maintain strong relationships with benefits carriers, brokers, and service providers across CanadaProvide strategic guidance to senior leadership by presenting financial analysis and recommendations related to benefits programsOversee the internal administration of benefits programs, ensuring efficient processes and accurate data managementDesign and implement operational procedures and reporting frameworks to improve service delivery and program oversightManage and mentor a small team responsible for benefits administration and employee supportParticipate in employee communication strategies related to benefits education and program changesMonitor regulatory changes and ensure compliance with pension and benefits legislationSupport complex benefits case management and collaborate with stakeholders to identify cost mitigation strategiesRequirements:Minimum 7+ years of progressive experience in pension and group benefits management, consulting, or insurance advisoryDemonstrated experience negotiating group benefits programs, renewals, and plan design with insurers or brokersStrong financial acumen with the ability to analyze claims data, pricing structures, and benefit cost trendsExperience working directly for insurance carriers, benefits brokers, or large employer-sponsored plansLeadership experience managing or mentoring team membersStrong analytical, negotiation, and strategic problem-solving skillsExcellent communication skills with the ability to advise senior leadership and influence decision-makingExperience managing vendor relationships and complex benefit programs across large employee populationsPost-secondary education in Human Resources, Business, Finance, or a related fieldCertified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS) designation or progress toward completion would be considered an assetAbility to travel occasionally within Canada to meet with vendors and stakeholdersIdeal Backgrounds for Success in This Role:Candidates most successful in this role typically come from one of the following environments:Group Benefits Brokerage or ConsultingAccount ExecutiveSenior Benefits ConsultantEmployee Benefits AdvisorInsurance Carrier (Group Benefits Division)Client Relationship ManagerGroup Benefits ConsultantSenior Account ManagerCandidates with pure benefits administration experience without exposure to negotiations, plan design, or carrier strategy are unlikely to be a fit for this role.Location & Relocation:This role is based in the Prairie Provinces and requires full-time, in-office presence. Candidates currently located in other parts of Canada are welcome to apply; relocation assistance will be provided for the successful candidate.Rewards:Competitive salary, commensurate with experience.Comprehensive benefits programPension and retirement savings programRelocation assistance available for candidates moving from outside the regionOpportunity to shape and lead the long-term strategy of a national benefits program within a growing organizationTo Apply:If this opportunity aligns with your experience and career goals, please forward your resume (Word format preferred) to Kyne Hunt, VP of Recruitment and Advisory, at , referencing Head of Employee Benefits Strategy & Programs in the subject line.We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for further consideration will be contacted. All applications will be handled with confidentiality and retained for future opportunities.