Michigan Medicine improves the health of patients, populations and communities through excellence in education, patient care, community service, research and technology development, and through leadership activities in Michigan, nationally and internationally. Our mission is guided by our Strategic Principles and has three critical components; patient care, education and research that together enhance our contribution to society.
Job Summary
At Michigan Medicine, executive compensation is a critical lever in aligning leadership performance with organizational priorities.
We are seeking a Manager, Executive Compensation & Strategic Initiatives to lead the design, governance, and execution of executive compensation programs while driving high-impact strategic initiatives across the organization.
In this role, you will partner closely with senior leadership, HR, Finance, Legal, and the Compensation Committee to ensure programs are competitive, compliant, and aligned to long-term business strategy. You will also lead efforts to modernize compensation processes, enhance manager self-service capabilities, and improve decision-making through data and technology.
This is a highly visible role for a leader who brings strong executive presence, strategic thinking, and the ability to lead complex initiatives that have enterprise-wide impact.
Reports to the Senior Director, Compensation, HRIS & Payroll.
Responsibilities*
Elevate Executive Compensation to a Strategic Function
Design and administer executive compensation programs including base, incentives, and retention structures
Deliver analytics that inform executive compensation decisions and workforce strategy
Support Compensation Committee materials and executive-level decision making
Lead Strategic Initiatives
Lead the vision and direction for executive compensation programs and strategic initiatives
Ensure alignment of compensation programs with organizational priorities and long-term strategy
Lead large-scale compensation initiatives including merit cycles and labor market adjustments
Ensure projects are progressing as expected and stakeholders are aligned
Drive initiatives that improve consistency and effectiveness of compensation programs
Modernize Compensation Processes
Enhance manager self-service capabilities and compensation tools
Identify opportunities for process improvement, automation, and efficiency
Ensure scalable and consistent compensation operations
Lead with Impact
Build and develop a high-performing team of compensation professionals
Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and strong execution
Provide coaching, mentoring, and development opportunities
Drive Execution, Compliance & Governance
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local compensation regulations
Maintain governance of compensation policies and practices
Use data and metrics to evaluate effectiveness and drive improvement
Required Qualifications*
EDUCATION
Bachelor's degree in Economics, Mathematics, Psychology, Statistics, Business Administration, Finance, Human Resources, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
Preferred: Master's degree or WorldatWork certification.
EXPERIENCE
8+ years of progressive compensation or HR experience
5+ years of leadership experience
Deep expertise in executive compensation design and governance
Experience leading complex, enterprise-wide initiatives
Experience advising senior leaders and executives
Preferred: Healthcare, higher education, or HRBP experience
Skills You Have
Strong executive presence and ability to influence senior stakeholders
Ability to lead complex, high-impact initiatives
Expertise in executive compensation strategy and program design
Strong project management and organizational skills
Excellent communication skills with ability to simplify complex concepts
Ability to operate independently in a fast-paced environment
High level of discretion and judgment
Leadership skills including coaching and team development
Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
Why Join Michigan Medicine?
Why join Michigan Medicine?
This is more than just a job - it's a chance to contribute to a world-class academic medical center where your work will help enable life-saving care and groundbreaking research. You'll work alongside dedicated professionals who are team-oriented, mission-driven, and passionate about what they do. We offer a collaborative culture that values your ideas and expertise, opportunities for professional growth, and the satisfaction of knowing that your efforts directly support our caregivers, educators, and researchers. We also prioritize work-life balance and employee well-being, because caring for our team is as important as caring for our patients.
WHAT BENEFITS CAN YOU LOOK FORWARD TO?
Excellent medical, dental and vision coverage effective on your very first day
Flexible spending accounts
Prescription Drug Plan
Mental and emotional health programs
Child Care Resources
Life Insurance
Legal Services Plan
Retirement Savings Opportunities with 2:1 match and immediate vesting
Modes of Work
This is a hybrid position reporting directly to the Senior Director, Compensation, HRIS & Payroll.
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
Work Locations
This position requires 3 days per week in office in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Additional Information
WHY THIS ROLE STANDS OUT
Opportunity to shape executive compensation strategy at a leading academic medical center
Direct partnership with senior leadership and Compensation Committee
High-impact role influencing enterprise leadership decisions
Leadership opportunity with visibility across the organization
Ability to drive strategic initiatives that shape the future of compensation
Background Screening
Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background screenings. Background screenings are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Report Act. Pre-employment drug testing applies to all selected candidates, including new or additional faculty and staff appointments, as well as transfers from other U-M campuses.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.
