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American University · 3 weeks ago

Senior Director of Total Rewards

Washington, DC

Full-time

Hybrid

Director/Executive

$170K/yr - $185K/yr

10+ years exp

American University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, known for its commitment to creating meaningful change. The Senior Director of Total Rewards is responsible for the strategic development and management of comprehensive compensation and benefit programs for the university, ensuring competitive offerings for staff and faculty while overseeing effective communication and compliance.

Higher Education

Responsibilities

Oversee the development and management of competitive compensation structures, salary bands, and incentive programs, and compensation policies to support fair pay practices and legal compliance. Design and implement a comprehensive, data-driven compensation strategy that aligns with the organization’s mission, goals, and workforce needs. Ensure the strategy remains competitive within the higher education industry and relevant labor markets to attract and retain top talent. Regularly assess the effectiveness of compensation programs and market data, and recommend adjustments to address market trends, employee satisfaction, and budget considerations. Oversee the creation and maintenance of a job architecture framework, including job families, levels, and career paths

Manage and provide competitive benefits (health and welfare, wellness, and retirement) programs and support systems for faculty, staff and retirees. Maintain effective communication with faculty and staff about benefits. Provide overall leadership, direction and oversight for all university benefits planning and administration. Recommend policy. Plan, negotiate and administer all University benefits programs and initiatives. Develop long range and current planning proposals, including budget impact. Serve as liaison between carriers and university offices of procurement and finance on contracts and coverage with insurance carriers, mutual fund companies, compensation vendors, and consulting firms. Prepare and present critical research and trend data and analyses on benefits. Review, evaluate and ensure programs remain in compliance with new and existing laws and regulations and align with university policies. Design and implement ongoing initiatives to enhance benefit offerings, ensure equity and effective manage costs

Manage, coach and develop subordinates for improved performance and job satisfaction. Clearly articulate performance expectations, develop realistic, time-bound and measurable work plans with HR staff to accomplish goals. Identify and support developmental opportunities of staff

Provide support and participate in union negotiations

Serve as part of HR management team. Provide strategic direction and mentorship to HR teams focused on compensation and benefits. Partner with key stakeholders, including Finance, IT, and Legal, to support effective implementation and compliance

Develop and implement strategies to effectively communicate total rewards programs and HR services to employees. Collaborate with HR leadership and key stakeholders to ensure proper administration of total rewards programs and compliance

Qualification

Compensation strategyBenefits administrationFinancial analysisData analyticsFederalState lawsExecutive coachingCustomer serviceStrategic communicationsManagement skillsInterpersonal skills

Required

A bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience

At least 10 years progressively responsible experience in compensation and benefits or equivalent in education, training and experience

High proficiency in consultation skills, executive coaching, customer service skills, strategic communications, collaboration, interpersonal and management skills, committed to supporting a diverse and inclusive community

Knowledge, understanding and application of Federal and State employment laws

High proficiency in financial analysis, modeling and budgeting

High proficiency in data analytics and use of Excel

Experience in design, development, implementation and administration of compensation and benefits programs