Sr. Compensation and Benefits Manager

Job Description

Job Description

General Overview

Essentra is seeking a Senior Manager of Compensation and Benefits to lead the Total Rewards function for the Americas region. This role is responsible for the development and execution of key compensation, benefits and payroll programs, while partnering with global and regional leadership to shape reward strategies that attract, retain and engage talent.

This role reports to the Global Reward Director (UK-based) and collaborates closely with regional HR and other key stakeholders, serving as a strategic advisor on compensation and benefits matters. This is a hybrid position that will be based in our Westchester, IL or Hoffman Estates, IL office.

Key Responsibilities:

-Overseeing U.S. compensation, payroll and benefits administration, ensuring compliance, competitiveness and alignment with global frameworks.

-Partnering with global and regional leadership to implement and tailor global reward programs that support business needs and regulatory requirements.

-Selecting and managing vendor relationships, overseeing performance, compliance and renewal processes, particularly in the US.

-Leading job evaluation, salary benchmarking and grading initiatives to maintain internal equity and market competitiveness.

-Developing and deploying global reward programs, including short- and long-term incentive plans.

-Leading a regional team, ensuring delivery of high-quality support for all customers and partners.

-Assessing organizational needs and developing strategies for structure, systems and vendor partnerships.

-Leading the annual merit and bonus cycle across the Americas, including planning, budgeting and execution.

-Delivering data-driven insights and compensation guidance to support regional talent strategies.

-Supporting M&A activity from a Total Rewards perspective, including due diligence, integration planning and harmonization.

-Driving region-specific reward projects and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance the employee experience and operational efficiency.

Qualifications, Skills & Abilities

-Bachelors degree in Human Resources, Business, Finance or related field required; CCP certification or Masters degree preferred.

-10+ years of progressive experience in compensation, benefits or total rewards.

-5+ years in a leadership role.

-Demonstrated success leading international compensation and benefits programs, preferably within the Americas.

-Deep knowledge of U.S. compensation and benefits regulations; exposure to Latin America or Canada is strongly preferred.

-Proven ability to advise and influence senior leadership on reward strategies, organizational design and workforce planning.

-Strong analytical and financial acumen, with the ability to interpret complex data and develop actionable insights.

-Experience managing vendor relationships and leading system/process transformations.

-Proficiency in HRIS/HCM systems (e.g., Dayforce, ADP, Workday); advanced Excel skills and working knowledge of Power BI.

-Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple initiatives and deliver high-impact outcomes in a dynamic environment.

-Ability to advocate, influence, communicate and manage change with customers and stakeholders at all levels.

-Occasional travel (up to 15%).

This position offers a competitive salary, bonus incentive, full benefits package, and generous paid time off.

The expected salary range for this position is $133,000-$167,000 plus bonus incentive. Actual salary will be based on skills, experience, and overall qualifications of the individual hired for the position.