Manages, leads, mentors, and develops employees assigned to the Benefits function, fostering a high-performing team committed to responsive and effective customer service; oversees the administration of health and welfare benefits and other employee benefit programs; guides staff in achieving goals and objectives; coaches and develops employees; provides constructive feedback on performance and behaviors; reviews and evaluates work; and counsels and handles personnel actions, including discipline and grievance processes for direct and indirect reports, as needed. Establishes collaborative relationships with Human Resources, Payroll, Labor Relations, Finance, vendors, consultants, and other stakeholders to support effective Benefits program administration; serves as a liaison for the assigned unit(s) to other District departments, divisions, and outside agencies; attends meetings as necessary; provides staff support to committees and task forces; and negotiates and resolves significant and potentially controversial issues.