Patterson isn't just a place to work, it's a partner that cares about your success.
One of the distinguishing marks of our company is the talented people who embrace the people-first, always advancing, and results-driven culture. Professional growth abounds in this motivating environment. We value the diverse talents and experiences our employees bring to Patterson and believe that they build a stronger and successful organization.
The Leave Program Manager is accountable for the design, implementation, administration, and continuous improvement of leave of absence, disability, paid leave, accommodation, and return-to-work programs while ensuring compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations. This role serves as the organization's subject matter expert for leave and accommodation programs, providing guidance on complex cases, overseeing third-party administrators, and driving enterprise-wide process enhancements. This role leads cross-functional initiatives that improve program effectiveness, employee experience, compliance, and operational outcomes.
Essential Functions
Accountable for the design, implementation, administration, and ongoing evaluation of leave of absence, disability, paid leave, accommodation, and return-to-work programs to ensure regulatory compliance, operational effectiveness, and a positive employee experience
Serve as the enterprise subject matter expert for protected leave, disability, accommodation, and return-to-work programs, providing consultation and direction on highly complex cases, escalated issues, and policy interpretation
Lead the oversight and vendor management of third-party administrators, establishing service expectations, resolving escalated issues, monitoring compliance, and driving continuous improvements in service delivery and program outcomes
Develop, maintain, and update leave-related policies, procedures, and program documentation, ensuring alignment with changing federal, state, and local laws and organizational objectives
Partner with Human Resources, Legal, Payroll, Risk Management, Operations, and other stakeholders to implement compliant and effective leave and accommodation solutions that balance employee needs with business requirements
Analyze program data, trends, regulatory developments, and operational metrics to identify risks, recommend strategic improvements, and implement solutions that enhance compliance, employee support, and organizational effectiveness
Direct the development and administration of return-to-work and workplace accommodation programs, promoting timely and sustainable employee reintegration while reducing lost work time and supporting workforce productivity
Provide guidance, coaching, and technical expertise to team members, managers, and HR partners regarding leave administration processes, regulatory requirements, and best practices
Comply with Company and department policies and standards; performs other duties as assigned
Minimum Requirements
Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources, or a related field, or equivalent education and/or experience
7 years of progressive experience in leave of absence, disability, accommodation administration, or related benefits experience
5 years of experience administering multi-state short-term disability, long-term disability, and state paid leave programs
Experience working with an outsourced leave management program or third-party administrator supporting leave and accommodation requests
Preferred Requirements
Experience with HRIS, leave management, and case management systems
Skills and Abilities
Proven experience interpreting and applying federal and state leave, disability, and accommodation regulations, including FMLA, ADA, COBRA, ERISA, HIPAA, ACA, state paid leave programs, and related compliance requirements
Ability to interpret complex regulations, assess risk, and make sound decisions to resolve sensitive employee situations
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the…