HR Sr Absence Management Specialist

The Sr Absence Management Specialist leads complex casework, related to leave and/or ADA accommodations, and serves as a senior-level expert across all absence and/or accommodation programs. This role has responsibility for regular reporting, supporting vendor partnerships, compliance strategy, and process optimization. The Specialist manages the most complex, sensitive, or high‑risk cases and partners closely with People Business Partners, Employee Relations, and senior leaders.

Independently manage complex leave cases and high‑risk scenarios (intermittent/continuous leave patterns, attendance intersection with performance issues, multi-state leave implications). Manage complex and high risk leave and/or accommodation cases, which may include multi-layered ADA situations, fitness–for–duty, multi-state leave implications and potential undue hardship determinations. Work closely with a third‑party administrator on daily case coordination, escalations, and data accuracy. Conduct full interactive processes with employees, managers, and healthcare providers.

Serve as the senior‑level expert on applicable leave and/or accommodation laws including but not limited to: ADAAA, FMLA, USERRA, state/local leave laws, and intersecting legislation. Interpret and apply regulatory requirements to novel or precedent‑setting cases. Partner with Employee Relations and People Business Partners on sensitive issues, escalations, and recommendations that may result in corrective action, leave/accommodation denial, job placement, or separation.

Lead policy updates, regulatory research, and risk mitigation strategies. Own absence and/or accommodation program reporting and case documentation; analyze trends and develop insights for leaders. Evaluate vendor performance, recommend improvements, and support RFP or vendor transition processes. Partner with HRIS/People Analytics to optimize workflows, dashboards, automations, and accuracy. Advise leadership on risk areas and long‑term impact of absence‑or accommodation‑related decisions.

Lead the design and delivery of enterprise‑wide training (legal compliance, manager responsibilities, ADA/leave intersections). Influence stakeholders and ensure alignment across departments. Lead cross‑functional projects involving leave program changes, new state plan implementation, technology upgrades, or organizational process redesign. May determine eligibility, recommend reasonable accommodations, and negotiate solutions balancing business needs and legal obligations. Demonstrates compliance with all bank regulations for assigned job function and applies to designated job responsibilities – knowledge may be gained through coursework and on‑the‑job training.

Keeps up to date on regulation changes. Follows all Bank policies and procedures, compliance regulations, and completes all required annual or job‑specific training. Maintain a working knowledge of Bank's written policies and procedures regarding Bank Secrecy Act, Regulation CC, Regulation E, Bank Security, and other regulations applicable to this job description. May be asked to coach, mentor, or train others and teach coursework as subject matter expert.

Actively learns, demonstrates, and fosters the Columbia corporate culture in all actions and words. Takes personal initiative and is a positive example for others to emulate. Embraces our vision to become “Business Bank of Choice” May perform other duties as assigned.

Education H.S. Diploma/GED required Bachelor’s degree in business or relevant field preferred

Experience 6-8 years' experience in absence management and/or related experience required

Skills Expert knowledge of federal and state disability and leave laws and regulations…