* Partner with the HR Director to develop and execute the EMEA benefits strategy that aligns with global business objectives and financial discipline.
* Conduct market and competitor analyses to ensure benefit programs remain best‑in‑class and support talent attraction and retention within the financial services sector.
* Provide expert guidance on benefits design, vendor strategy, and governance frameworks, ensuring programs adhere to both local market regulations and corporate risk standards.
* Serve as an advisor for EMEA benefits strategy during M&A, organizational changes, or policy harmonization efforts.
Program Design & Delivery
* Oversee the design, renewal, and management of core benefit programs (medical, risk, retirement, wellbeing, and lifestyle benefits) across multiple EMEA markets.
* Assess program competitiveness, employee value, and cost-effectiveness using data‑driven insights and financial modeling.
* Partner with finance, legal, and compliance to ensure benefit programs meet both regulatory obligations and internal audit requirements.
* Lead relationships with external brokers, insurers, and consultants, ensuring performance accountability and cost optimization.
Operational Excellence & Transformation
* Take a hands‑on leadership role in the initial phase to document and enhance regional operational processes.
* Partner with the Philippines shared services team to transition day‑to‑day administrative and transactional activities, ensuring seamless handover, strong governance, and clear accountability.
* Establish key performance indicators and reporting structures to monitor service delivery quality, turnaround times, and compliance post‑transition.
* Drive standardization and automation opportunities to improve efficiency, accuracy, and employee experience.
Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement
* Partner closely with HR Business Partners, regional HR leads, and centers of excellence to align benefits with workforce needs and business strategy.
* Work with internal communications teams to deliver clear, consistent, and engaging employee communications around benefit offerings and changes.
* Represent the EMEA region in global benefits settings and contribute to global strategy, benchmarking, and policy alignment.
Qualifications & Experience
* Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or professional certification (CIPD, CEBS, or equivalent) preferred.
* 7+ years of progressive experience in benefits or total rewards, with at least 4 years managing multi‑country programs within the financial services or banking industry.
* Demonstrated experience balancing hands‑on program management with strategic oversight and governance.
* Proven success managing or supporting shared services or offshoring transitions in a complex, regulated organization.
* Strong analytical and financial acumen; adept in Excel, benefits modeling, and HR systems.
* In-depth understanding of EMEA benefits practices, statutory frameworks, and market norms.
* Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills, with an ability to influence senior leaders and cross‑functional partners.
* Strategic Agility: Sees the big picture while managing immediate priorities.
* Governance Mindset: Champions compliance, audit readiness, and risk mitigation.
* Operational Excellence: Delivers accuracy, efficiency, and high‑quality execution.
* Relationship Building: Builds trust across regions, functions, and levels.
* Analytical Rigor: Uses data and market insights to drive recommendations.
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