Specifications include, but are not limited to:The five (5) institutions that make up the Metropolitan Zoological Park and Museum District (ZMD) are seeking a national benefits consulting firm to perform the full range of services related to planning, brokerage, implementation and service of employee benefit programs. The institutions include the Missouri Botanical Garden, Missouri Historical Society, Saint Louis Art Museum, Saint Louis Science Center and the Saint Louis Zoo. The Missouri Botanical Garden (MBG) will be leading the selection. #1 Strategic Planning: Organize and facilitate discussions to set goals and objectives based on industry practices for similar non-profit, cultural institutions, employee demographics, and ZMD business requirements. Conduct benchmarking and comparisons of benefit plan offerings, design and costs to similar local and national employers (benchmarking to include non-profit and/or cultural institution sector). Identify plan performance and financial outcomes for each institution and the group. # 2 Annual Renewal Services: Present benchmark updates and annual trend data. Conduct effective analysis of underwriting of current carriers and identification of alternative methodologies for cost reductions. Lead renewal process including marketing of plans, evaluation of carriers and negotiations on behalf of the ZMD institutions. Provide marketplace leverage in negotiating with carriers in regards to rates, policy terms, plan design and fees. Present carrier comparisons and alternatives to plan design that take advantage of the ZMD collaborative procurement of benefits. Coordinate provider presentations and facilitate decision making process. Prepare accurate and timely contracts and renewal documentation. #3 Research, Education and Regulatory Compliance: Ability to monitor regulatory and legislative developments at both the state and federal level and a process for educating clients. Preparation and compliance update of Summary of Benefits, Plan Document/SPD, Section 125 testing, and 5500 completion, as applicable. Oversight of all benefit plan documents to ensure compliance on behalf of the ZMD institutions. Provide client access to ERISA/ Benefits Legal counsel. #4 Employee Communications and Open Enrollment Support: Create communication campaigns to align with client enrollment outcomes for each institution. Compose creative communication materials to clearly guide employees on benefit choices and decision-support tools. Facilitate open enrollment meetings. Provide efficient document control for review and management of input and revisions.