Manager, International Benefits Strategy

Description
Remote - This role is categorized as remote. This means the successful candidate may be based anywhere in Ontario and is not expected to report to a GM worksite unless directed by their manager.
The Role
The Manager, International Benefits Strategy is a highly strategic and influential role responsible for developing, executing, and managing employee benefits programs across multiple countries. This position reports to the Director, Global Benefits, Hourly Compensation & Labor Relations. This leader will ensure the competitive positioning, compliance, and sustainability of global benefit offerings, aligning them with organizational goals and workforce needs. The incumbent acts as a trusted advisor to internal stakeholders and external partners, elevating the employee experience and supporting the company's objectives. The Manager, International Benefits Strategy reports to the Director of Global Benefits, Hourly Compensation & Labor Relations. This role has direct reports, will coordinate work with regional HR professionals, and serve as a leader and mentor to immediate team members.
Key Responsibilities

• Strategy Design: Spearhead the formulation of international benefits strategies that support the organization's business objectives and reflect local market trends, regulations, and employee expectations. Oversee the design and ongoing management of new and existing programs, such as health insurance, pension plans, wellness initiatives, and paid leave policies.
• Global Program Management: Coordinate with local HR teams, external vendors, and consultants to deliver best-in-class solutions tailored to regional requirements. Partner with Risk Management to oversee the GM Captive.
• Governance & Compliance: Monitor and ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and company policies in each region. Stay abreast of international legislative developments, proactively adjusting benefits programs to maintain compliance and mitigate risk.
• Benchmarking & Analytics: Lead the regular benchmarking of company benefit programs against industry standards and competitors. Utilize quantitative and qualitative data to evaluate program effectiveness, identify gaps, and present actionable recommendations for improvements.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Serve as the primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders regarding international benefits. Develop and deliver training sessions, presentations, and communications that inform and engage the global workforce.
• Vendor Relationship Management: Build and maintain relationships with benefits providers, brokers, consultants, and other vendors. Negotiate contracts and service-level agreements to ensure optimal value and quality for employees and the organization.
• Financial Oversight: Collaborate with Finance and HR teams to develop, monitor, and forecast budgets for international benefits programs. Analyze cost implications and strive to balance program costs with employee satisfaction and organizational sustainability.
• Process Improvement: Continuously seek opportunities to streamline and enhance benefit administration processes through technology, automation, and best practices. Lead cross-functional projects to improve the efficiency and accessibility of programs.
• Employee Advocacy: Champion the employee experience by advocating for equitable, inclusive, and innovative benefits solutions. Solicit feedback and incorporate employee perspectives into program design.

Qualifications and Experience

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field required. Master's degree or relevant professional certifications (CEBS, GPHR, etc.) preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in employee benefits, compensation, or HR management, with at least 3 years in an international or global capacity.
• Knowledge: Deep understanding of international benefits design, administration, and compliance requirements. Familiarity with health and welfare systems, retirement plans, wellness initiatives, and regional employment laws.

Skills/Competencies

• Strategic thinking and problem solving
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Data analysis and reporting
• Project management and organizational skills
• Cross-cultural competency and adaptability
• Negotiation and vendor management
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a matrix environment
• Strong English written and verbal communication

Attributes

• Professional Integrity: Demonstrates discretion, reliability and ethical judgment in handling sensitive data and making decisions that impact employees globally.
• Influence and Leadership: Inspires confidence and facilitates cooperation among diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Results Orientation: Focused on delivering high-quality outcomes, driving improvements, and achieving strategic objectives.
• Continuous Learner: Committed to staying current on global benefits trends, legislative changes, and emerging employee needs.
• Empathy and Inclusion: Values diversity and fosters an environment of respect, equity, and belonging.

Relocation

• This job is not eligible for relocation benefits. Any relocation costs would be the responsibility of the selected candidate.

Benefits:
The goal of the General Motors of Canada total rewards program is to support the health and well-being of you and your family. Our comprehensive compensation plan currently includes the following benefits, in addition to many others:

• Paid time off including vacation days, holidays, and supplemental benefits for pregnancy, parental and adoption leave.
• Healthcare, dental and vision benefits including health care spending account and wellness incentive.
• Life insurance plans to cover you and your family.
• Company and matching contributions to a Defined Contribution Pension plan to help you save for retirement.
• GM Vehicle Purchase Plan for you, your family, and friends.

GM DOES NOT PROVIDE IMMIGRATION-RELATED SPONSORSHIP FOR THIS ROLE. DO NOT APPLY FOR THIS ROLE IF YOU WILL NEED GM IMMIGRATION SPONSORSHIP NOW OR IN THE FUTURE.
About GM
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Why Join Us
We believe we all must make a choice every day - individually and collectively - to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.
Total Rewards | Benefits Overview
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We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications for each role and apply for any positions that match their skills and capabilities. Applicants in the recruitment process may be required, where applicable, to successfully complete a role-related assessment(s) and/or a pre-employment screening prior to beginning employment. To learn more, visit How we Hire.
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