Senior Specialist - Benefits

Wood Mackenzie is the global leader in analytics, insights and proprietary data across the entire energy and natural resources landscape. For over 50 years our work has guided the decisions of the world’s most influential energy producers, utilities companies, financial institutions and governments. Now, with the world’s energy system more complex and interconnected than ever before, sector-specific views are no longer enough. That’s why we’ve redefined what’s possible with Intelligence Connected. By fusing our unparalleled proprietary data with the sharpest analytical minds, all supercharged by Synoptic AI, we deliver a clear, interconnected view of the entire value chain. Our trusted team of 2,700 experts across 30 countries breaks siloes and connects industries, markets and regions across the globe. This empowers our customers to identify risk sooner, spot opportunities faster and recalibrate strategy with confidence – whether planning days, weeks, months or decades ahead. Wood Mackenzie Intelligence Connected WoodMac.com Wood Mackenzie Brand Video Wood Mackenzie Values Inclusive – we succeed together Trusting – we choose to trust each other Customer committed – we put customers at the heart of our decisions Future Focused – we accelerate change Curious – we turn knowledge into action Role Purpose The Senior Specialist – Human Resources (Benefits) will support the delivery of benefits provision across the Americas region. This role is responsible for benefits administration across the regions by managing our BAU activities, along with supporting annual renewals and projects. The successful candidate for this position must have experience and a thorough knowledge of benefits and payroll practices across the Americas region (US, Canada, Mexico, Brazil). The ideal candidate will have experience working in a fast-paced, rapidly changing environment and be willing to guide, support, and engage with the wider HR and payroll/finance teams. Key Responsibilities Benefits Administration: Enter and validate employee benefit elections during onboarding or open enrolment Process benefit cessation and ensure correct end dates for leavers Review and approve life event requests and update benefit selections accordingly Coordinate COBRA notifications, enrolment, and continuation coverage administration with the vendor following qualifying events. Manage end-to-end leave cases including approvals and employee/manager co-ordination Communicate leave status and related changes to payroll to ensure accurate pay and benefit deductions. Ensure benefits continue or adjust correctly during periods of leave Employee Support: Provide first-line guidance on benefit plans, enrolment, coverage, and processes. Send standard communications to employees. Investigate and resolve complex benefit issues escalated from employees, managers, vendors, or HR teams. Work with vendors to resolve denied or complex insurance claims Advise…