Employee Benefits Partner

A law firm in Southfield, MI is seeking a qualified Employee Benefits Partner to lead a wide range of employee benefits matters. This role involves designing, drafting, and providing legal support for various employee benefits programs, including defined contribution plans, defined benefit plans, employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs), and executive compensation programs. Additionally, the position includes controversy work and providing support in mergers and acquisitions.

Job Responsibilities:

• Design, draft, and offer legal support for defined contribution plans, defined benefit plans, employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs), employee welfare plans, and executive compensation programs.
• Provide legal guidance on executive compensation programs, ensuring they are compliant with ERISA, tax, and other regulatory laws.
• Support clients in mergers and acquisitions, focusing on the employee benefits implications and conducting due diligence.
• Handle ERISA-related controversies, including audits, investigations, and disputes, working with agencies such as the IRS and the Department of Labor.
• Advise on the structuring and legal compliance of ESOP transactions, while also providing ongoing support to existing ESOPs.
• Ensure clients are compliant with ERISA, tax laws, and other applicable legal requirements concerning employee benefits.
• Keep abreast of changes in employee benefits regulations and proactively advise clients on regulatory updates.
• Collaborate with internal legal teams and external stakeholders to manage complex employee benefits projects and meet client deadlines.
• Represent clients before government bodies, including the IRS and Department of Labor, concerning matters related to employee benefits and executive compensation.

Requirements:

• Minimum of 8+ years of experience in ERISA, employee benefits, and executive compensation matters.
• Extensive experience in ESOP transactions and advising existing ESOPs.
• Strong understanding of ERISA, tax laws, and related legal regulations concerning employee benefit plans and executive compensation.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly to clients and internal teams.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously with strong organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency in project management, ensuring that tasks are completed efficiently and accurately in a fast-paced environment.

Education:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Admission to the Michigan Bar, or eligibility to obtain admission.

Certifications (Preferred):

• Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) or equivalent is preferred.
• Additional certifications related to ERISA, tax law, or employee benefits law are advantageous but not required.

Key Skills:

• Expertise in ERISA and related employee benefits laws.
• Deep knowledge of tax law as it applies to employee benefits and executive compensation.
• Proficiency in advising on and managing employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs).
• Exceptional project management and organizational skills, ensuring accurate and timely delivery of services.
• Strong interpersonal skills with a client-focused approach to providing legal advice.
• Negotiation skills and the ability to develop practical solutions to complex legal issues.

This position offers a leadership opportunity for a legal professional specializing in employee benefits and executive compensation to contribute to a respected law firm in Southfield, MI.