The Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS), cosponsored by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEPB) and the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School, provides education for the total compensation professional. Topics include group and health benefits plans, compensation and human resources and all aspects of retirement planning. Course formats include self-study and online instruction. Completion of the course requires an examination.
Requirements. Students interested in the CEBS designation usually have prior experience in compensation and benefits planning. Compensation and combined compensation and benefits professionals remain in high demand. Certification distinguishes these professionals from others with less concentrated experience in this highly sought after post. Since this role requires math and statistics, students should have a solid foundation in this area before applying to the IFEPB.
Considerations. CEBS designation holders may use their skills in corporations, selling employee benefits programs to companies (as a corporate insurance sales professional), or within an insurance sales agency. CEBS holders may also elect to work as a senior human resources professional. Comparing and contrasting compensation remains a topic of constant concern for large and small employers offering benefits to their employees.
Compensation. Depending upon experience, CEBS professionals earn $70-$100,000 or more.
IFEBP also offers the Compensation Management Specialist, Group Benefits Associate, and Retirement Plans Associate designations.