At Build-A-Bear we believe in the power of imagination, creativity, and memorable experiences. Our mission is to add a little more heart to life by creating unique experiences, lasting connections, and beloved memories that create lasting emotional connections. We are a multi-channel, site-based experience and entertainment company, with diversified categories and consumer segments. We are seeking a strategic and inspirational Director, Benefits to join our dynamic team.

The Director, Benefits plays a pivotal role in shaping the overall employee experience, supporting talent management strategies, and contributing to the company's competitiveness in the marketplace. The strategic impact extends beyond traditional benefits to encompass the holistic well-being and engagement of the workforce.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute a benefits strategy aligned with business objectives
• Ensure accurate, compliant, and efficient benefits administration
• Manage vendor relationships for optimal service and cost
• Implement effective communication strategies for benefits education
• Utilize data analytics to assess and enhance benefits programs
• Manage benefits budget to optimize quality and competitiveness
• Identify and mitigate cost inflation while maintaining quality
• Collaborate with HR to enhance employee experience through benefits
• Manage the retirement savings program
• Administer leave management
• Manage scholarship and safety programs
• Deliver benefit presentations to the Board as needed
• Provide guidance and support to the benefits team

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field
• A minimum of 7 years of benefits administration experience
• 1 year in a people leadership role
• In depth knowledge of employee benefits regulations, trends, and best practices
• Proficient in HRIS implementation and continuous improvement
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel

Preferred Qualifications:

• Professional certifications such as SPHR, SHRM-SCP, CEBS or similar credentials
• MBA or Master's Degree in HR or related field
• Experience managing international benefits programs

Behavioral Traits for Success:

• The ability to deal with abstract concepts, systems, and ideas
• Organized self-disciplined approach to producing timely results that are high quality and accurate
• An analytical, inquiring, and critical mind that solves complex problems
• Can consider all possibly related facts and potential issues
• Intellectual confidence
• Able to weigh all decisions carefully and thoroughly, based on expertise in order to avoid risk

Working Environment:

• Typical office environment with climate control and sufficient lighting, ergonomic desk/chairs
• Flexible work environment, based at the Corporate Office located in downtown St. Louis, MO
• Domestic travel up to 5%

Your Performance Will be Measured On:

• Decision-making judgment and execution
• Ability to foster team collaboration, communication, and performance
• Alignment of benefits with overall people strategy
• Quality of program administration
• Data accuracy and reporting
• Cost control and budget adherence
• Engagement Survey Results
• Quality presentations that are engaging and offer actionable insight Return on Investment (ROI)
• Stakeholder feedback