Benefits and Pensions Lead - 6 - 12 months contract - Robert Walters : Job Details

We are seeking a strategic and experienced Benefits and Pensions Lead on a 6- 12 months contract to lead the design, governance, and delivery of employee benefits and pension schemes across the UK and EMEA. This role will also play a key part in managing third-party risk, engaging with internal and external stakeholders, and driving benefits-related projects to successful completion.

Hybrid working, 2 days a week in London.

Key Responsibilities

Benefits Strategy & Management

• Design and manage employee benefits programs across the UK and EMEA, including healthcare, life insurance, wellness, and flexible benefits
• Benchmark benefits offerings across multiple countries and recommend enhancements
• Lead annual renewals, vendor selection, and contract negotiations

Pensions Administration

• Oversee UK and international pension schemes, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Ensure compliance with local pension legislation across EMEA jurisdictions
• Liaise with pension providers, trustees, and regulatory bodies globally

Third Party Risk Management (TPRM)

• Conduct due diligence and risk assessments on benefits and pensions vendors
• Monitor vendor performance and compliance with contractual and regulatory obligations
• Collaborate with Procurement, Legal, and Risk teams to ensure robust third-party governance

Stakeholder Engagement

• Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders including HR, Finance, Legal, and regional leadership
• Act as a trusted advisor to employees and senior leaders on benefits and pensions matters
• Represent the company in external forums and with regulatory bodies

Project Management

• Lead and deliver benefits and pensions projects, including system implementations, policy changes, and regional rollouts
• Develop project plans, manage timelines, and coordinate cross-functional teams
• Track progress, manage risks, and ensure delivery within scope and budget

Compliance & Governance

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of UK and EMEA employment law, pensions legislation, and tax implications
• Ensure all benefits and pensions policies are compliant and documented
• Prepare reports for internal and external audits, including international reporting requirements

Employee Engagement & Communication

• Develop and deliver clear communication strategies for benefits and pensions across multiple regions
• Provide guidance and support to employees on benefits and retirement planning
• Deliver training sessions and workshops tailored to local needs

Qualifications & Experience

• Proven experience in managing employee benefits and pensions across UK and EMEA regions
• Strong understanding of international pensions legislation and benefits frameworks
• Experience with TPRM processes and vendor governance
• Demonstrated success in stakeholder engagement and cross-functional collaboration
• Strong project management skills with experience leading complex initiatives
• Experience with global HRIS and benefits administration platforms
• CIPD qualification or equivalent (desirable)
• Multinational or regional HR experience strongly preferred

Key Competencies

• Strategic thinking and global mindset
• Attention to detail and data accuracy
• Strong interpersonal and stakeholder management skills
• Project leadership and execution
• Risk awareness and compliance orientation
• Confidentiality and professionalism

Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates