MEET LISA REIMER, PROGRAM MANAGER
At Foremost Farms, our Human Resources department plays a pivotal role in designing and delivering benefits that go beyond the basics, helping employees achieve wellness, work-life balance, and peace of mind. With a deep understanding of both policy and people, Lisa Reimer bridges the gap between corporate strategy and human needs, making sure the benefits offered truly serve the Foremost Farms team.
PLEASE DESCRIBE YOUR ROLE WITHIN FOREMOST FARMS AND YOUR PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
I manage the day-to-day administration of employee benefits, including health insurance, retirement plants and our Employee Assistance Program (EAP). I also work closely with our benefits partners to ensure eligibility, plan design and daily operations run smoothly.
Another large part of my role is overseeing medical leaves of absence. I help employees understand what options and benefits are available to them such as the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or short- and long-term disability benefits. Then I oversee their leave of absence and pay, track time, and ensure any applicable benefits are paid timely. My priority is to educate employees on what our benefits provide, how to access them, assist with questions or concerns and see any issues through to resolution.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT WORKING AT FOREMOST FARMS?
I love the people and purpose, as well as our members. I’m a dairy farm kid and grew up on a Foremost Farms member farm! Working at the cooperative for the past 25 years has allowed me a connection to my family and farm life that is meaningful to me.
AS WE APPROACH FOREMOST FARMS’ BENEFITS OPEN ENROLLMENT PERIOD, WHERE CAN EMPLOYEES GO TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THEIR BENEFITS?
Clear communication is key, and I work hard to make open enrollment an easy process. I strive to provide all the information that employees need to make their decisions, while at the same time not overwhelming them. Some employees would rather find their open enrollment information in their home mailbox instead of via email, so we distribute accordingly. Either way, employees will find information at their fingertips, with direct links or web addresses where they can go for more information. Watch your email and mail for more information.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE EMPLOYEES TO MAKE THE MOST OF THEIR BENEFITS?
You don’t have to be an expert—just know enough. By skimming through the benefits materials we provide, you’ll gain a high-level understanding of what’s available, from EAP services to immunizations to our 401(k) employer match. Then, when a need arises, you’ll know where to turn. Then you can reach out to me and ask questions – that’s what I’m here for!
IN YOUR EXPERIENCE, HOW DOES A STRONG BENEFITS PROGRAM HELP FOREMOST FARMS ATTRACT TOP TALENT?
A strong benefits package shows that we care about more than just a paycheck—we care about our employees’ health, families and future. Foremost Farms works hard to provide a generous, competitive package that truly supports employees and their loved ones. My role is to help make sure employees see and feel the value of those benefits in their daily lives.
SINCE FALL IS SUCH A BIG SEASON FOR DAIRY COMFORT FOODS, WHAT’S YOUR GO-TO DISH?
I love a super creamy baked potato soup! Hope to make some soon!