When is it time to rethink a long-time benefits consultant? Salam Safi and Tanya Brooks discuss their health plan consultant search and what HR leaders should look for beyond data and tools, especially when improving the employee experience matters as much as the bottom line. In this episode, Eric, Salam, and Tanya discuss: Expectations and mindset for benefits service providersSimplifying a complex benefit structure after acquisitions and system changesWhy Darling decided to reevaluate its health plan consultantServing a dispersed, manufacturing workforce with limited tech accessLessons from the RFP: relationships, “vibe,” and avoiding status quo comfort Key Takeaways: Providers should understand a company’s history, needs, and goals rather than offer one-size-fits-all solutions.Simplifying plan design can improve compliance, administration, and employee understanding.Consultants on “autopilot” may overlook changes in client needs and strategy.Data matters, but communication, trust, and clear recommendations set consultants apart.Empowering HR leaders in vendor decisions strengthens accountability and employee outcomes. “I hire for my team the same way that I look at vendor partners. If I can't get along with you, this will not be a good relationship.” - Salam Safi “They are the bulk of our population. They're also the reason why we have a desk in an office to sit in. They do the hard work; we are here to support them.” - Tanya Brooks About Salam Safi: Salam Safi is a strategic Human Resources executive with extensive experience in people strategy and organizational transformation. As Vice President of Human Resources, US at Darling Ingredients, she works with executive leadership to align talent strategies with business priorities and drive performance. Her expertise includes talent management, organizational design, leadership development, workforce planning, employee relations, HR technology, and change management. She is known for building high-performing teams, strengthening leadership, and enhancing the employee experience. About Tanya Brooks: Tanya Brooks is an experienced Human Resources and Payroll leader with over a decade of experience in HR operations, payroll, benefits, retirement programs, and HR technology. As Director of Human Resources, Benefits & Retirement, she leads employee benefits and retirement programs while ensuring compliance and a positive employee experience. Previously, Tanya served as Director of Payroll & HRIS and Payroll Manager, overseeing payroll operations, HR systems, compliance, and process improvements. She is known for developing efficient HR solutions that support employees and organizational goals. Connect with Salam & Tanya: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/salamsafi/ & https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanya-b-aba24373/ Connect with Eric Dyson: Website: https://90northllc.com/ Phone: 940-248-4800 Email: contact@90northllc.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/401kguy/ The information and content of this podcast are general in nature and are provided solely for educational and informational purposes. It is believed to be accurate and reliable as of the posting date, but may be subject to change. It is not intended to provide a specific recommendation for any type of product or service discussed in this presentation or to provide any warranties, investment advice, financial advice, tax, plan design, or legal advice (unless otherwise specifically indicated). Please consult your own independent advisor as to any investment, tax, or legal statements made. The specific facts and circumstances of all qualified plans can vary, and the information contained in this podcast may or may not apply to your individual circumstances or to your plan or client plan-specific circumstances. The opinions expressed by guests on the Be More Than a Fiduciary podcast are not necessarily the same as the opinions held by 90 North Consulting or by Executive Director Eric Dyson.
