Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

KRISTOPHER J. CARTER

Chesterton,Indiana

Summary

Results-driven executive with extensive experience leading absence management programs, optimizing business operations, and implementing client-centric solutions across large organizations. Proven expertise in driving process improvements, managing high-performing teams, and building strategic partnerships to ensure compliance, mitigate risks, and foster business growth. Adept at leveraging data analytics, vendor management, and cross-functional collaboration to enhance employee benefits, retention, and satisfaction while aligning initiatives with organizational goals. Known for strong focus on team collaboration, dynamic change management, and achieving measurable outcomes. Demonstrated skills in organizational development, financial oversight, and resource optimization. Consistently fosters a productive work environment and drives continuous improvement.

Overview

23
23
years of professional experience

Work History

Absence Management Manager

Trinity Health
01.2024 - Current
  • As the Leave of Absence Administration Manager for the HR Service Center, I oversee all operational aspects of the Leave of Absence Administration Center of Expertise (LOAA COE), driving cross-departmental collaboration to resolve complex issues and ensure regulatory compliance
  • I lead strategic projects focused on system optimizations (Workday, Kronos, PRISM), managing performance indicators and establishing service level agreements (SLAs) to improve operational efficiency
  • Through effective vendor partnerships, I champion continuous process improvements and risk mitigation, driving long-term sustainable growth and operational excellence

Absence Management Senior Manager

WM (Waste Management)
01.2021 - 01.2024
  • Led the Absence Management Team (AMT) to deliver high-quality service to HR Business Partners, Managers, Directors, and employees
  • I managed vendor relationships, ensuring the effective delivery of key performance indicators and analytics
  • I initiated a comprehensive RFP process to select a new Short-Term Disability and Family Medical Leave vendor, resulting in enhanced metrics, reporting, and service delivery
  • My leadership also led to the design and implementation of a formal claims process, increasing operational efficiency
  • I partnered with internal counsel to ensure compliance and reduce legal risks, improving service outcomes and reducing complaints

Absence Management Manager

Northwestern Medicine
01.2016 - 01.2021
  • Managed a diverse portfolio of leave programs for 30,000 employees, overseeing a team of coordinators and administrators
  • I spearheaded the implementation of new vendors for absence management and life programs, leading RFP processes, training programs, and system enhancements in PeopleSoft and Kronos
  • I developed and updated policies to ensure compliance and streamlined operations, and I successfully launched paid parental leave and other benefit programs to increase employee satisfaction and retention
  • Additionally, I established a proactive approach to collaboration with HR Business Partners to review absence metrics, leading to stronger relationships and improved organizational performance

Operations/Client Service Manager

Sedgwick CMS
01.2003 - 01.2016

Operations Manager

Ceridian
06.2011 - 08.2012

Claim Examiner

The Hartford
11.2001 - 10.2003

Education

Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education

Valparaiso University
Valparaiso, IN
05.1999

Skills

  • Strategic Operations Management
  • Vendor & Client Relationship Management
  • Regulatory Compliance
  • Executive Leadership & Team Development

Timeline

Absence Management Manager

Trinity Health
01.2024 - Current

Absence Management Senior Manager

WM (Waste Management)
01.2021 - 01.2024

Absence Management Manager

Northwestern Medicine
01.2016 - 01.2021

Operations Manager

Ceridian
06.2011 - 08.2012

Operations/Client Service Manager

Sedgwick CMS
01.2003 - 01.2016

Claim Examiner

The Hartford
11.2001 - 10.2003

Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education

Valparaiso University
KRISTOPHER J. CARTER