Oversees the administration and compliance of employee leave programs
Ensures accurate tracking, timely processing, and adherence to organizational policies and regulatory requirements
Manages end-to-end absence workflows—including FMLA, disability, PTO, and other leave types
Implements strategies that optimize operational efficiency and minimize risk
Supervises a team of specialists
Maintains system integrity for absence data
Partners with HR, Payroll, and Legal to resolve complex cases and ensure consistent application of policies
Develops reporting and analytics to monitor trends, identify gaps, and recommend process improvements that enhance employee experience and organizational compliance
Acts as a subject matter expert on absence-related issues
Drives continuous improvement initiatives to support workforce well-being and business continuity

3 + years of job experience in a similar role
3+ years of leadership experience
Experience handling leaves and accommodations cases as an HR Specialist
Experience with HCM systems required (Workday is preferred)
Demonstrated leadership experience, whether formal by title or informal by actions required, strong team player
Proficiency in the MS Office Suite of products required
Excellent verbal, written, interpersonal and customer service skills essential
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail required
Thorough understanding of human resource principles, practices, laws, procedures, and company culture
Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to manage upward
Ability to function well in a fast-paced and, at times, stressful environment
Understands the balance of advocating for associates with compassion and attention to law and policy with the needs of the business
Expert problem-solving skills: deep critical thinking about complex problems and know how to leverage resources to create solutions
Demonstrated advanced usage of AI and the management of teams using AI to lean in to process and technological improvements, to include the exploration, experimentation, and application of AI

Leave of Absence and Disability Program Manager

Key skills