Dawn Heikkila
Punta Gorda,USA
Summary
Strategic HR leader with expertise in Risk Management and Benefits Program design and Management.
Skilled risk management professional with strong focus on identifying, evaluating, and mitigating potential risks. Adept at collaborating with teams to achieve optimal results and adapt to changing needs. Expertise in risk assessment, data analysis, and regulatory compliance, combined with analytical mindset and effective communication.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Risk Management Analyst
Forsyth County Government
Winston-Salem
07.2023 - 02.2025
- Relocated
- Managed self funded insurance program; specifically Auto Liability, General Liability, Workers Compensation and Property claims for Forsyth County Operations.
- Conducted regular audits of compliance with risk management protocols across departments.
- Developed and implemented risk management policies to enhance organizational resilience.
- Analyzed risk exposure and vulnerabilities in county operations to inform strategic decision-making.
Director of Human Resources
Lee County Sheriff
Fort Myers
07.2007 - 06.2023
- Retired
- Complete oversight and responsibility for Self-funded insurance programs. Including Workers Compensation, Auto liability, General Liability and Property Claims.
- Managed compliance with labor laws and regulations, mitigating legal risks.
- Negotiated favorable contracts with vendors, maximizing the value of HR services received while minimizing costs.
- Oversaw benefits administration, ensuring compliance and cost-effectiveness of offerings.
Risk and Benefits Manager
Lee County Sheriff
Fort Myers Florida
04.1999 - 2007
- Promoted
- Managed Workers Compensation, Auto Liability, General Liability and Property Claims for a self funded program.
- Audited benefit programs and agreements to optimize service delivery.
- Conducted regular audits of benefit plans to identify discrepancies and maintain accuracy in records.
- Coordinated disability claims management, working closely with insurance providers to facilitate prompt resolutions for affected employees.
Education
BA - Public Administration
Barry University
Fort Myers, FL05.2012
Skills
- Benefits Administration
- HRIS/Tech Proficiency
- Compliance Management
- Data Analysis
- Communication
- Problem-Solving
- Strong Organizational Skills
- Claim reviews
- Internal audits
- Incident investigations
- Employee safety
- Exposure assessment
- Claims management
- Mediation
- Workers compensation programs
- Client relationship management
Timeline
Risk Management Analyst
Forsyth County Government
07.2023 - 02.2025
Director of Human Resources
Lee County Sheriff
07.2007 - 06.2023
Risk and Benefits Manager
Lee County Sheriff
04.1999 - 2007
BA - Public Administration
Barry University