Benefits Specialist

Summary: 

Reporting to the Human Resources Manager ER/LR the Benefits Specialist is responsible for the daily operations and administration of Hard Rock Ottawa’s Benefits programs, including but not limited to, vendor management, benefit orientation and (de)enrollments, claim management and leaves of absence programs in compliance with federal, provincial and local leave laws, legislation and regulations and informs and guides employees on benefit matters regarding eligibility, coverage and provisions. Incumbent is expected to perform all responsibilities with a commitment to providing superior service to Team Members, efficient and effective departmental operations, and an atmosphere of teamwork and continuous improvement.  This position is also an integral member of the property’s Human Resources team, working closely with fellow Human Resources professionals in support of the property’s Human Resources’ goals. Additionally, this role collaborates directly with global Support Services teams to ensure alignment with brand standards, strategic objectives and innovative initiatives.

• Coordinates and conducts benefit/insurance orientation and ensures timely and accurate enrollment of eligible Team Members, including annual re-enrolment program.
• Provides superior guest service, positively effects interaction with guests and Team Members.
• Assists Team Members with all claim’s procedures, billing discrepancies and information related to policies.
• Ensures system accuracy through coverage audits.
• Manages all leave of absence processes from the commencement of leave to return from leave or separation of employment, including personal/sick days.
• Serves as primary point of contact for leave of absence and oversee the administration by third-party leave administrator.
• Provides information and guidance to team members regarding leave policies and requesting and applying for leave.
• Monitors claims status and performs necessary follow-up with Team Members and team leaders.
• Track leave expiration/exhaustion ensuring appropriate notifications are sent to Team Members and team leaders.
• Work with Team Members who are returning from extended periods of leave on a reintegration plan as appropriate.
• Serves as a local point of contact for Hard Rock perks
• Maintains up-to-date knowledge and skills in assigned areas through professional reading, research and other professional development opportunities, recommend process and procedure updates and improvements as necessary, and implement same.
• Ensures tracking reports for leave of absence are updated and distributed to management team.
• Administration of Ottawa property pension plans, dental, vision, para medical, life insurances, travel insurance and ensuring compliance across all agreements. The incumbent will work directly with the benefit providers.
• Assists with updating company policy manuals; ensures all Handbook Acknowledgement forms are signed and collected from team members.
• Handles all leaves in accordance with all Collective Bargaining Agreement requirements.
• Handles difficult, sensitive situations that require discretionary thinking and decision-making.
• Handles various Team Member issues with confidentiality, using problem-solving skills as required.
• Organizes work, ensures timely data entry into various systems to include HRIS and other departmental tracking mechanisms.
• Ensures adherence to policies and procedures as governed by provincial & federal legislation, regulatory compliance, department and the company.
• Interacts with and assists Team Members in an upbeat, positive and professional manner.
• Acts as a role model to other Team Members.
• Takes an active role in support of company promotional programs.
• Actively participates in Internal Audit(s) as required.
• Lives the Brand.

EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION, AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Minimum of five (5) years’ experience in an HR and/or benefits position required, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field is preferred.
• CHRP designation or working towards achieving designation is preferred.
• Must be able to obtain a Cat 2 license with the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO).

 ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Previous hospitality, hotel or casino experience highly preferred, particularly in human resources. 
• Ability to travel (10-15%) and work flexible schedules, including nights, weekends and holidays is required.
• Fluency in English: additional languages (French) preferred.

SKILLS

• Must possess strong communication and listening skills, excellent speaking, reading and writing.
• Comprehend and use technical or professional language, either written or spoken, to communicate complex ideas.
• Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization.
• Ability to work flexible schedules, including nights, weekends and holidays as required.
• Ability to be punctual and meet deadlines.
• Ability to function independently in a multi-task environment, as well as a part of a team.
• Ability to deliver a service level which creates an atmosphere that makes our internal and external guests want to return, giving each guest a positive, memorable experience.
• Ability to present an image of excitement, enthusiasm and outgoing personality, while being able to present a professional appearance and demeanor.
• Ability to develop and deliver programs which create a service level of excellence for all levels of management and Team Members.
• Ability to link training to the organization’s strategic goals.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment on an independent basis.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.
• Must possess excellent attention to detail and be extremely organized.
• Must be proficient in Microsoft Office, i.e. Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Outlook.

Hard Rock International is an equal opportunity employer. We live our motto LOVE ALL – SERVE ALL, and strive to foster an inclusive workplace culture for every team member.

We are committed to providing employment accommodation in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.

Please contact Human Resources at hrnotify@hrcottawa.com if you require accommodation at any time throughout the hire process.