Associate Director/Director, Benefits

Own the benefits function end to end for a fast-growing organization, and build a program that keeps pace with the company's momentum.

About the Opportunity

A growing pharmaceutical company in Central New Jersey is hiring a dedicated benefits leader to own its benefits program as the organization scales. This is a hands-on role with real ownership over how the company's benefits are designed, delivered, and improved. You will report directly to the Head of HR and work closely with the broader people team.

*The level of the hire is flexible from Senior Manager through Director, set to match the depth of experience the right person brings.

What You Will Do

• Own the design, administration, and ongoing management of the company's health, welfare, and retirement benefits programs.

• Manage broker and vendor relationships directly, including negotiating rates and holding partners accountable to service standards.

• Lead annual renewals and open enrollment from planning through execution and employee communication.

• Evaluate plan design and recommend changes that balance cost, competitiveness, and employee experience.

• Serve as the go-to resource for employees on benefits questions, escalations, and life events.

• Ensure programs stay compliant with applicable federal and state regulations, and keep documentation and reporting current.

• Partner with the broader HR team and Finance on budgeting, forecasting, and benefits strategy as the company grows.

What You Bring

• Hands-on benefits program management experience, with direct exposure to plan design, renewals, and vendor and broker relationships.

• A track record of working directly with brokers and negotiating rates, and the ability to speak to how a benefits program actually runs end to end.

• Broad, hands-on exposure across the full benefits function rather than deep specialization in a single, narrow area.

• Comfort operating as a builder and individual contributor who can also shape strategy, not only administer an established program.

• Strong communication skills and sound judgment when advising employees and leadership alike.

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience. Benefits certifications such as CEBS are a plus.

• Life sciences or pharmaceutical industry experience is welcome but not required; benefits expertise translates well across industries.

Location & Compensation

This is a hybrid role based in Central New Jersey, with three days on-site per week.

Compensation is set to the level of the hire and ranges from approximately $175,000 to $225,000 in base salary, plus an annual performance-based bonus targeted between 30% and 35%. Final level and offer will reflect the successful candidate's experience.

About the Search

This search is being conducted on a confidential basis by Summit Strategic Search on behalf of our client. Qualified candidates will receive additional detail about the company and the role during the interview process.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Our client is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Accommodations

If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, please let your Summit Strategic Search contact know and we will be glad to assist.

Selection & Onboarding

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply through their Summit Strategic Search contact. Our team will review applications on a rolling basis and coordinate interviews with the hiring team. Selected finalists should expect standard reference and background verification prior to an offer.