Lead Analyst, Health Plan Data & Strategy
The Wonderful Company is a privately held $6 billion global enterprise with 10,000 employees, known for iconic brands such as FIJI Water, POM Wonderful, Justin Wine, Teleflora, and Halos Citrus. We are committed to fostering a collaborative, entrepreneurial workforce that prioritizes employee well-being and drives health-focused innovation.
About the role
The Lead Analyst, Healthplan Data & Strategy leads data-driven analysis and partners closely with Wonderful’s Benefits leadership and Wonderful Wellness Centers. This role supports strategic recommendations on plan design, performance, and long-term sustainability of the company’s U.S. self-funded health plans. It integrates medical, pharmacy, clinical, financial, and vendor data to evaluate benefit strategies, forecast trends, measure return on investment, and identify opportunities to improve employee health outcomes while optimizing total healthcare spend.
The ideal candidate brings experience in U.S. self-funded health plan claims analysis, benefits strategy, clinical program evaluation, and healthcare cost management. This is a lead individual-contributor role that drives cross-functional initiatives through analytics, project leadership, and strategic partnership. The position works closely with the Director, Global Benefits and reports to the Sr. Director, Health Plan & Benefits. This role is based in West Los Angeles, CA, with a hybrid schedule requiring in-office presence Monday-Wednesday and remote work options on Thursday and Friday.
Responsibilities
- Manage, analyze, and report medical and pharmacy claims to identify cost drivers, utilization trends, and opportunities to optimize benefit design and vendor performance.
- Develop trend analyses and forecasting models to support healthcare cost projections, budgeting, and scenario planning.
- Apply industry knowledge and data analysis to identify inefficiencies, cost drivers, and performance gaps and recommend strategies to improve spend while protecting member outcomes.
- Conduct benchmarking analyses to assess the competitiveness of benefit programs and identify gaps and opportunities for improvement.
- Evaluate and recommend benefit design changes (e.g., medical, dental, vision, disability, life insurance) to support effective plan management, cost efficiency, and a strong employee experience.
- Define key financial, clinical, and utilization metrics to assess health plan performance and establish reporting to monitor those indicators.
- Facilitate internal Chief Medical Officer involvement through regular updates and escalation of material clinical, utilization, or cost trends, as needed.
- Support evaluation of clinical programs, including case management initiatives and related vendor partnerships, to assess impact on health outcomes and cost of care.
- Evaluate plan and vendor performance (financial, clinical, operational, and member experience outcomes, including ROI analysis) to support contract renewals and strategic partnerships.
- Support benefits strategy and leadership through analysis, reporting, and recommendations related to benefit programs and plan design.
- Develop and present clear, compelling materials that communicate key insights and recommendations to senior-level executives.
- Lead projects by aligning stakeholders, communicating progress, and ensuring timely delivery of required work products.
- Identify opportunities to leverage on-site health centers to improve member health outcomes and reduce external claims costs.
- Perform other duties and special projects as assigned by the Sr. Director, Health Plan and Benefits.
Requirements
- At least 4 years of experience in healthcare data analytics in a health plan setting; self-funded experience strongly preferred.
- Prior experience in data analytics and financial modeling required.
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field required; master’s degree preferred.
- Experience in a large, complex organization (1,000+ employees) preferred.
- Advanced analytical and quantitative skills with the ability to analyze large, complex healthcare datasets and translate findings into actionable insights.
- Experience with SQL and healthcare reporting tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, SSRS).
- Strong problem-solving ability and analytical judgment in complex, fast-paced environments.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects independently and collaborate effectively across functions.
- Ability to build credibility with business leaders and maintain strong working relationships.
- Knowledge of HR software applications; experience with UKG and PlanSource preferred.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- Ability to handle confidential matters with discretion, tact, and diplomacy.
Benefits
- Access to top-notch medical coverage, comprehensive vision and dental plans, and a 401k with company match.
- 24/7 online physician consultations and virtual mental health resources.
- Life coaching and engaging employee community groups.
- Cash rewards for healthy habits and fitness reimbursements.
- Library of on-demand fitness videos.
- Career advancement opportunities with clear paths for progression and internal mobility across diverse brands and business units.
- Focused learning and development, including People Manager and leadership training, webinars, and eLearning courses.
- Company-wide mentorship program to connect with colleagues, share goals, and overcome challenges.
- Continuous improvement training to drive positive change in the workplace.
- Company-provided funds to allocate to up to three charities of your choice through Wonderful Giving.
- Opportunities to participate in group service projects within local communities through Wonderful Neighbor.
Pay
Salary range: $110,000–$125,000, with potential for a discretionary bonus. Final compensation will be dependent on skills and experience.
Schedule
Hybrid schedule with in-office requirement Monday–Wednesday and remote work options on Thursday and Friday.