Panorama Insurance Associates, Inc. is a leading force in the insurance industry, combining the trusted relationships and reputation of the past with the innovation and technology of the future. We provide transformative solutions that empower agents, clients, and carriers to thrive in a rapidly changing marketplace. Guided by an inclusive and collaborative approach, we are committed to being the premier partner for building and growing business across the industry. At our core, we invest in people- fostering careers in a supportive environment built on respect, growth, and shared success.
Job Purpose & Position Overview
The Employee Benefits Consultant serves as a strategic partner to clients and an integral advisor within the Benefits Advisory practice. This role leads the analytical, consultative, and operational strategy for assigned employer groups, exercising independent judgment to design benefit solutions, evaluate market options, negotiate carrier terms, and guide clients through key decisions.
The Consultant owns the end‑to‑end advisory process, including market strategy, plan evaluation, implementation oversight, and year‑round client management, ensuring each client’s employee benefits program aligns with organizational goals, regulatory requirements, and financial parameters.
This position requires advanced understanding of employee benefits operations, strong analytical skills, and the ability to independently evaluate complex information to recommend and execute solutions.
Key Responsibilities
Client Advisory & Strategic Benefits Guidance
- Serve as the primary subject‑matter advisor for assigned clients, providing guidance on plan design, market trends, funding strategies, and regulatory impacts.
- Analyze claims data, utilization patterns, renewal projections, and financial models to develop strategic recommendations.
- Present plan options, cost comparisons, and strategic analyses to client leadership and decision‑makers.
- Exercise independent judgment to recommend preferred carriers, networks, plan structures, and cost‑containment strategies.
Market Analysis, Negotiation & Decision Authority
- Lead the full marketing and renewal process, including strategy development, plan benchmarking, carrier negotiations, and finalist selection.
- Independently negotiate rates, fees, contract terms, and service guarantees with carriers within delegated authority levels.
- Evaluate RFP responses for network adequacy, clinical programs, underwriting methodology, and administrative capabilities.
- Recommend final vendor selection based on your analysis and strategic alignment with client needs.
Implementation Oversight & Program Governance
- Direct implementation of new plans or changes, coordinating with carriers, HR teams, and internal resources to ensure accuracy and compliance.
- Establish and oversee enrollment, eligibility, and billing audit processes to ensure plan integrity and operational quality.
- Identify risk areas and implement process controls to ensure compliance with HIPAA, ERISA, ACA, and carrier policies.
- Develop and maintain standards, workflows, and process enhancements for client onboarding and renewal cycles.
Relationship Management & Client Advocacy
- Act as the primary escalation point for complex enrollment, billing, contractual, or claims‑related issues requiring independent decision‑making.
- Build and maintain strong client relationships through proactive communication, issue resolution, and strategic guidance.
- Review client objectives annually and develop multi‑year benefits strategies to support workforce, financial, and competitive goals.
Department Leadership & Process Improvement
- Lead cross‑functional projects focused on service optimization, workflow enhancement, and technology adoption.
- Develop tools, templates, and best practices that elevate departmental consistency and efficiency.
- Mentor junior team members by providing guidance, technical expertise, and strategic insight.
- Participate in long‑term planning activities that shape the direction of the Benefits Advisory practice.
Qualifications
- 3+ years of experience in employee benefits consulting, HR benefits management, carrier underwriting, or related advisory roles.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to evaluate complex data and make strategic recommendations.
- Demonstrated ability to exercise independent judgment in high‑impact decisions.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and experience with benefits platforms (Perfect Quote, Archon, etc.).
- Strong communication and presentation skills with the ability to interface with client leadership.
- State Life & Health license (or ability to obtain within 90 days).
Benefits
- Medical: HSA, PPO, EPO options (base plan 95% employer‑paid)
- Dental PPO (including zero‑premium options)
- Vision plan at no cost
- FSA & HSA (with $1,000 employer HSA contribution on eligible plans)
- Commuter benefits up to $600/month
- Employer‑paid LTD, STD, Life & AD&D
- Supplemental health & identity protection programs
- EAP support for household members
- 401(k) with 100% match up to 5%
- Exempt Time Off: Flexible (unlimited)
- 12 paid holidays
- Flexible remote/hybrid schedules
- Licensing, accreditation, and professional development support