The Director, Benefits is responsible for the leadership, strategy, design, implementation, and ongoing management of the company's employee benefits programs including healthcare, defined benefit and defined contribution retirement plans, retiree health, time off, and wellbeing. This role requires a deep understanding of benefits regulations, best practices, and a strategic approach to designing and delivering competitive and cost-effective benefits packages that attract, retain, and engage employees. The Director will lead a team of benefits professionals to deliver innovative and sustainable benefits solutions that enable our broader talent strategy and business objectives, while driving operational excellence in the administration of our benefits programs. This role is a key member of both the Total Reward leadership team as well as the global HR function leadership team. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Develop and Implement Benefits Strategy: Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive benefits strategy in all core benefit areas including healthcare, defined benefit & defined contribution retirement plans, retiree health, time off, and wellbeing. Vendor Management: Manage relationships and monitor performance with external benefits vendors including: brokers, insurance carriers, and third-party administrators. Compliance and Governance: Ensure all benefits programs comply with all applicable local and regional laws and regulations. Maintain accurate and up-to-date records and documentation. Stay abreast of changes in legislation and regulatory requirements. Labor and Employee Relations: Collaborate with the Director of Employee and Labor Relations in the negotiation of collective bargaining agreements, providing expertise on benefits-related provisions and the financial implications of proposed changes. Benefit Cost Management: Analyze benefits data to identify trends, assess program effectiveness, monitor costs, and make data-driven recommendations for improvements. Collaborate with finance partners on overall cost management. Prepare regular reports for senior management on benefits program performance and costs. External Trend Analysis: Keep abreast of marketplace trends, relevant regulations and other factors in order to inform internal strategy for what may impact plan performance and program competitiveness Communication and Education: Oversee the development and implementation of effective communication strategies to inform and educate employees about benefits programs and resources Team Leadership and Development: Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of benefits professionals. Provide guidance, training, and support to team members. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field. Master's degree and/or benefits specialist certification (i.e. CEB) preferred. 10+ years of experience in benefits management, with a proven track record of success in designing, implementing, and managing comprehensive and complex benefits programs. Knowledge of accounting and actuarial principles associated with financial reporting of benefits programs Deep understanding of benefits regulations and best practices. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills. Ability to lead and manage a team of professionals and build partnerships across various functions to develop collaborative working relationships with colleagues and vendors Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and benefits administration software. Strong project management skills. Salary Range The salary range for this position is $169700.00 - $254700.00 / Annually. At General Mills we strive for each employee's pay at any point in their career to reflect their experiences performance and skills for their current role. The salary range for this role represents the numerous factors considered in the hiring decisions inc uding, but not limited to, educations, skills, work experience, certifications, etc. As such, pay for the successful candidate(s) could fall anywhere within the stated range. Beyond base salary, General Mills offers a competitive Total Rewards package focusing on your overall well-being. We are proud to offer a foundation of health benefits, retirement and financial wellbeing, time off programs, wellbeing support and perks. Benefits may vary by role, country, region, union status, and other employment status factors. You may also be eligible to participate in an annual incentive program. An incentive award, if any, depends on various factors, including, individual and organizational performance. General Mills is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Women, minorities, veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply to any General Mills employment opportunities.