Melinda Merkel
Burnsville
Summary
Dynamic Sales Analyst with a proven track record at Mutual of Omaha, excelling in RFP management and fostering broker relationships. Adept at problem-solving and effective communication, I consistently deliver accurate proposals and enhance client engagement, driving sales success and ensuring compliance across diverse benefit programs.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Sales Analyst
Mutual of Omaha
Minnetonka
04.2024 - Current
- Facilitate comprehensive sales support by managing quote activities and developing broker relationships.
- Assist with client meetings, implementation calls, and enrollment sessions to meet sales objectives.
- Prepare and review proposals, ensuring timely responses and maintaining accuracy.
- Coordinate RFP management in GSAP while liaising with clients and brokers.
Benefit Advocate (Account Manager)
Pharos Employee Benefits
Eagan
07.2021 - 04.2024
- Researched and addressed employee inquiries regarding benefits, eligibility, and coverage.
- Managed eligibility changes for over 200 clients using paper applications and EASE HRIS system.
- Endorsed benefits programs while conducting annual reviews to ensure legal compliance.
- Maintained relationships with vendors to guarantee accurate and timely delivery of benefits services.
- Developed communication materials and presentations detailing employee benefit plans.
Provider Relations Associate Analyst
Cigna Insurance Services
Edina
10.2020 - 07.2021
- Managed inbound calls from providers regarding mental health and substance use disorder services.
- Communicated eligibility, benefits, and authorization requirements for Cigna-covered customers.
- Analyzed claim information and billing procedures to assist providers with processing issues.
- Organized and multi-tasked across claims and benefits systems, ensuring HIPAA compliance of medical information.
Housing Stabilization Coach
Supportive Living Solutions
St Paul
10.2019 - 10.2020
- Managed caseload of 15-25 clients across the metro area, providing community and in-home support.
- Conducted in-home visits to engage clients in person-centered discussions regarding challenges and successes.
- Identified barriers to housing stability and developed action plans for client involvement in housing search.
- Coordinated meetings with clients, care teams, government agencies, and property managers to advocate for client rights.
- Assisted clients in applying for housing subsidies and rental assistance programs.
- Collected and maintained client data in compliance with program requirements.
Senior Service Center Representative
Hennepin County
Maple Grove
07.2017 - 10.2019
- Collected data for daily, weekly, and monthly transaction reports and accounting functions.
- Assisted in maintaining license inventory records to ensure accuracy.
- Resolved customer complaints by addressing technical transaction inquiries effectively.
- Provided training and work direction to staff, ensuring optimal performance.
Education
Bachelor of Science - BS - Family Social Science
University of Minnesota
Twin Cities05.2018
Skills
- Collaboration skills
- Problem solving
- RFP management
- Attention to detail
- Effective communication
- Adaptability
- Organizational skills
- Resourcefulness
- Restoration strategies
- Microsoft Office proficiency
- Patience
- Multitasking ability
- HRIS management
Websites
Certification
- Minnesota Resident Insurance Producer License - Life, Accident & Health, NPN #40767447, 10/01/21
- Account Manager Academy Certification, GenuineShift, 0ff8115b-6d1b-410a-8c23-49ca618789d1, 09/01/23
Timeline
Sales Analyst
Mutual of Omaha
04.2024 - Current
Benefit Advocate (Account Manager)
Pharos Employee Benefits
07.2021 - 04.2024
Provider Relations Associate Analyst
Cigna Insurance Services
10.2020 - 07.2021
Housing Stabilization Coach
Supportive Living Solutions
10.2019 - 10.2020
Senior Service Center Representative
Hennepin County
07.2017 - 10.2019
Bachelor of Science - BS - Family Social Science
University of Minnesota