Compensation Manager

Position Summary

 The Corporate Manager of Compensation is responsible for developing and spearheading compensation systems and programs across all divisions of School Specialty.

Reporting Relationships

 This position will report to the Chief Human Resources Officer.  This is an individual contributor position and serves as the subject matter expert for all compensation programs, which the exception of executive compensation.

Primary Responsibilities  Develop, administer and implement annual compensation programs and processes to support the people and business processes of SSI.  This includes annual salary/merit increases; annual bonus programs for division and Corporate participants, etc. Assume oversight and continued enhancements of salary administration programs, job leveling, salary ranges, consistent job titling, etc. Assume oversight and provide consultation and recommend changes for divisional sales incentive compensation plans, quarterly bonus programs and annual management incentive plans. Assess compensation and leveling to ensure competitiveness and appropriate consistency for all businesses and geographies.  Design and implement necessary changes across the organization Identify, develop, assist with the development of a total rewards strategy to include the design, development and oversight of recognition and rewards programs. Support compensation for talent acquisition – common offer letters; compensation packages, etc. Share best practices across HR – imparting compensation expertise across HR skill sets Participate on and/or lead special projects to company-wide HR initiatives Support the implementation of an HRIS.



QualificationsA minimum of five to six years of experience in and managing progressive compensation practices through compensation roles. Significant capabilities in Compensation programs design to include, pay structures, annual bonus plans and sales bonus plans development Significant experience with job and grade leveling activities; development and implementation of compensation administration  Knowledge and expertise in developing recognition and reward programs to support employee engagement and a high performance work environment Prior experience effectively managing others in multiple locations though project management and managing through influence. Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills. Excellent presentation and facilitation skills. Possesses strong knowledge and networks in best practices across diverse external organizations. Effectively interacts with senior teams and contributes to a company-wide human resources team. Strong ability to consult and assess needs of an organization; serve as a strategic problem solver and make recommendations for various interventions and solutions where compensation is a key lever. Strong influencing skills as well as consulting capabilities. Solid track record in project management and ability to multi-task. Excellent relationship building skills. Prior experience and comfort level working in fast-paced, complex and lean environments. Undergraduate degree required; advanced degree preferred.