Leave of Absence Manager

Overview

The Leave of Absence Manager owns and administers all leave of absence programs nationwide for field associates and HQ employees. This role oversees and ensures compliance with all federal, state, and local leave laws and regulations—including FMLA, ADA, state paid leave programs, and company leave policies—while serving as the subject matter expert for leave administration. The role provides guidance to HR, managers, and employees, manages complex and high-risk cases, mitigates organizational risk, and delivers a consistent, compassionate employee experience from leave intake through return to work.

• Own and administer all leave of absence programs nationwide for field associates and HQ employees, including FMLA, ADA, state paid leave, and company-sponsored leaves
• Monitor and interpret federal, state, and local leave laws (FMLA, ADA, state paid leave programs, etc.) to ensure organizational compliance
• Lead paid leave program implementations and rollouts, serving as the project manager for new or expanded leave offerings across states and employee populations
• Develop, implement, and maintain leave policies and procedures aligned with legal requirements and company standards
• Prepare reports and documentation for internal review, regulatory agencies, and stakeholders as required
• Partner with Legal and HR leadership to assess compliance risks and recommend corrective actions
• Lead the administration of leave programs, ensuring accurate and timely processing of requests
• Serve as the escalation point for complex leave cases, including ADA accommodations and overlapping leave entitlements
• Coordinate with payroll and benefits teams to ensure proper handling of paid and unpaid leave
• Provide guidance and resources to HR staff, managers, and employees on leave policies and compliance requirements
• Communicate updates on legislative changes and their impact on company policies
• Conduct regular audits of leave processes and documentation to ensure compliance and identify areas for improvement
• Prepare reports and metrics on leave utilization, compliance trends, and risk mitigation efforts

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field
• 5+ years  experience managing complex, multi-state leave of absence programs, including FMLA, ADA, state paid leave, and program rollouts or implementations
• Strong knowledge of FMLA, ADA, state paid leave laws, and related regulations
• Strong track record of partnering with leadership, influencing cross-functional stakeholders, and driving organizational change
• Certified Leave Management Specialist (CLMS) or similar

• Proven ability to assess complex situations, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions
• Skilled in prioritizing tasks, managing multiple projects, and ensuring operational efficiency
• Strong interpersonal skills with experience in delivering clear, engaging training and fostering collaboration
• Trusted to handle sensitive information with the highest level of integrity and professionalism