Title
Hire Benefits Manager above the pay range minimum.
Body
Recommended Action: Approve the recommendation to hire a Benefits Manager above the pay range minimum. Salary-$70,000/year
The starting wage for Benefits Manager is $52,499 per year. The department has extended an offer of $70,000 per year to a candidate who has 18 years of exclusive benefits experience.
Analysis: The candidate brings direct experience to the position, including experience with all levels of benefit management, including fund planning, compliance, data analysis/measurement, and the Affordable Care Act. The recommended salary is commensurate with the candidates level of experience and knowledge of the position requirements.
Alternatives: Continue search for qualified candidates. The position has been open since 02/28/14 with little success in attracting qualified candidates.
Financial Considerations: Wage and benefits for the minimum of the range annualize to $78,873. The requested salary falls between the midpoint and maximum of the pay range and increases the annualized wage and benefits to $99,738. The difference between the requested salary/benefits and the salary/benefits at the range minimum is $20,865. It is anticipated that there will be sufficient funds within the Health and Life fund to support this salary and benefit level for 2014 and 2015.
Legal Considerations: N/A
Policy Considerations: Policy 4.2001 states: The hiring wage rate is normally at the minimum of the positions salary range. A hiring wage rate up to ten (10) percent of the minimum may be paid with the County Manager's approval. Hiring wage rates more than ten (10) percent of the range minimum will require approval from the Sedgwick County Board of Commissioners.