Kara Kononen

About Kara Kononen

I am a Health & Benefits professional passionate about helping organizations create programs that truly support their people. I thrive on solving complex challenges, building strong client relationships, and delivering strategies that make a measurable impact on cost, efficiency, and employee wellbeing.With experience managing diverse client accounts, I apply deep knowledge of benefit programs, financial planning concepts, and vendor management to optimize outcomes. I enjoy leading projects and collaborating with teams to ensure excellence across every deliverable. I believe that when employees feel supported, businesses succeed.

Experience

1. Associate Manager, Health & Benefits

   WTW

   Jan 2026 — Present · Denver, CO, US

   Manage multiple client accounts of varying complexity, delivering strategic insights tailored to diverse client profiles- Apply deep knowledge of Health & Benefits to advise on business issues and develop actionable strategies- Leverage expertise in ancillary benefits and financial planning concepts to enhance client conversations and presentations- Analyze interactions between financial and plan management activities to optimize cost, employee impact, and support needs- Oversee vendor management activities, resolving claims and administrative issues on behalf of clients- Address complex client inquiries and collaborate to draft client deliverables- Create and manage detailed project plans, budgets, and timelines to ensure efficiency and accuracy- Coordinate and lead meetings with internal teams and carrier/vendor partners to align objectives- Build strong relationships through regular engagement with clients, carriers, and vendors.

Education

• University of Northern Colorado

  Business Administration

  2008 — 2009

• Colorado State University

  Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business Administration and Hospitality Management, Concentration in Organization and Innovation Management

  2009 — 2012

• Front Range Community College

  Culinary Certificate, Culinary Arts/Chef Training

  2007 — 2008

• Front Range Community College

  Business Administration and Management, General

  2010 — 2010

Skills

• Customer Service
• Customer Satisfaction
• Training
• Volunteer Management
• Teamwork
• Organizing
• Recruiting
• Food Service
• Business Communication
• Event Planning
• Hotels
• Success Driven
• Marketing
• Food
• Microsoft Office
• Restaurants
• Leadership
• Hospitality
• Event Management
• Restaurant Management
• Micros
• Detail Oriented
• Management
• Food
• Hospitality Industry
• Time Management
• Hospitality Management