Who We Are

With over twenty-five years of invaluable experience in the healthcare and employee benefit consulting industry, Stacey LaFay stands as a seasoned leader at Franklin Benefits. In her role, she spearheads the practice, guiding clients through various employee benefit challenges with expertise and dedication. Stacey’s collaborative approach ensures that clients receive comprehensive support, ranging from addressing day-to-day plan issues to devising long-term strategic plans. This includes meticulous plan design, cost analysis, and nurturing vendor relationships. Since 2007, Stacey has been an integral part of the Franklin Benefits team, driving success and excellence in service delivery.

Delivering Results for Clients

Stacey holds the esteemed position of Senior Principal at Franklin Benefit Solutions, where she excels in managing intricate consulting assignments and fostering strong client relationships. With over 25 years of experience, Stacey brings a wealth of expertise to the table in the design and implementation of health and welfare programs. Her dedication to delivering exceptional service and achieving client satisfaction is unparalleled.

Area of Expertise

Throughout her career, Stacey has remained dedicated to enhancing customer experience and optimizing employee benefit performance as her foremost objectives. With a specialization in serving Nonprofits and Governmental entities, Stacey has concentrated her efforts on providing comprehensive retiree health and Medicare solutions.

Before joining Franklin Benefits, Stacey served as a consultant at the University of Michigan’s healthcare provider M-CARE for over a decade, where she managed Ford, General Motors, University of Michigan and Coca Cola retirees and active employees. She gained invaluable experience and expertise in the healthcare industry.

Stacey’s Education and Affiliations

Stacey is a proud graduate of Central Michigan University, holding a Bachelor of Arts degree. She is licensed in Life and Health Insurance by the state of Michigan, HIPAA certified, Series 6, and Medicare Licensed.

Stacey resides in the vibrant community of Fenton, Michigan, alongside her husband Bill. Outside of her professional pursuits, she enjoys a diverse range of hobbies including hiking, golfing, basketball, pickleball, reading, and traveling.

Overview

Michael Spleet serves as a trusted advisor to our clients, offering expert guidance across a wide spectrum of employee benefit challenges. His role encompasses strategic planning, financial analysis, and clear communication of plan funding and design options for both fully insured and self-funded health insurance plans. With a focus on the design and analysis of these programs, Michael brings a wealth of expertise to the table. Since joining Franklin Benefits in 2007, he has been a pivotal asset, driving success and delivering excellence in service.

Delivering Results for Clients

As a Senior Principal at Franklin Benefit Solutions, Michael is at the forefront of addressing the complex challenges surrounding employee benefits. With a keen understanding of the evolving landscape, Michael develops tailored solutions to tackle issues such as escalating costs, administrative inefficiencies, and the imperative for effective employee education. His expertise spans across Nonprofit, Government, and Manufacturing industries, where he collaborates closely with clients to craft benefit programs aligned with their organizational objectives while ensuring cost-effectiveness and market competitiveness.

Area of Expertise

• Thorough analysis of benefit program competitiveness and cost-effectiveness.
• Expertise in health and welfare plan design, including detailed analysis of insured versus self-funded options, health provider effectiveness, and ACA compliance.
• Skillful interaction with retirement and health service providers at all levels, encompassing contract negotiation, plan design, administration, and compliance.

Before co-founding Franklin Benefit Solutions, Michael served as a consultant for a prominent Flint, MI-based health and employee benefit firm.

Michael’s Education and Affiliations 

Michael earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor –“Go Blue!” He holds Michigan Insurance Licenses for Life and Health, along with designations as a Registered Health Underwriter, Chartered Life Underwriter, and Chartered Financial Consultant.

Outside of work, Michael enjoys gardening, distance running, and passionately cheering for University of Michigan Football. Impressively, he has completed 32 consecutive Crim-10 Mile races and recently celebrated U of M’s Rose Bowl victory over Alabama, propelling them to the national title game.

Overview

Tom’s primary responsibility is to drive new business development by offering compliance solutions, with a focus on health and welfare. He specializes in consulting with clients, providing expert guidance on a range of compliance issues, including eligibility, plan administration, and adherence to State and Federal regulations, notably the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Tom’s expertise ensures that clients remain compliant with complex regulatory frameworks while optimizing their benefit plans to meet their employees’ needs effectively. He stays updated on the latest developments in healthcare legislation to provide accurate and timely advice, thereby helping clients navigate the intricate landscape of compliance with confidence.

Delivering Results for Clients

Tom prioritizes staying abreast of the evolving benefit landscape to anticipate changes and devise effective strategies. He achieves this by diligently monitoring and analyzing both new and ongoing federal and state legislation, as well as carefully reviewing summary plan documents. Tom conducts thorough research and analysis of labor regulations and matters pertaining to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) to assist clients in selecting strategic options that align with their compliance needs. By staying proactive and informed, Tom ensures that clients are well-prepared to adapt to regulatory shifts and maintain compliance in an ever-changing regulatory environment.

Area of Expertise

• Collaborate with clients, management, and staff to identify and manage regulatory risks and legal requirements effectively.
• Develop, implement, and oversee compliance programs and policies tailored to the specific needs of each client.
• Manage information through rigorous research, meticulous recording, and thorough analysis.
• Conduct comprehensive risk assessments to ensure businesses operate smoothly within regulatory frameworks.
• Proactively address compliance challenges and mitigate risks to safeguard the integrity and reputation of the businesses served.

Education and Background

Tom holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Central Michigan University.

Beyond his professional endeavors, he finds joy in various interests and hobbies, including reading, cooking, engaging with the arts, following politics, delving into history, and savoring the outdoors.

Overview

Connie provides support to our clients in all facets of the employee benefits administration. Connie is the foundation that makes our exceptional client services run smoothly. She executes policy and plan changes, leverages insurance knowledge and communication skills to explain coverage terms, program options, compliance obligation to our clients. Connie has worked at Franklin benefits since 2007.

Delivering Results for Clients

Connie leverages her communication skills and benefit knowledge to help make sure client benefit plans run smoothly. Connie has saved our clients hundreds of thousands of dollars from medical billing and coding errors.

• Works with internal departments to ensure cohesiveness and timeliness of service execution.
• Leads weekly scheduled meeting with service team to discuss accounts, renewals, service needs, and service platform.
• Communicates effectively with Account Team and provides timely and complete information to allow them to effectively manage service the needs of clients.
• Supports, mentors, and trains employees as necessary.

Area of Expertise

• Directing and coordinating daily operations and ensuring production and service is meeting standards.
• Establishing and developing relationships with clients.
• High degree of critical thinking and decision-making skills.
• Ability to keep calm, perform duties and deliver results for clients in a high-pressure, fast paced environment.
• Implement procedures and group enrollments for new plans.
• Supervising and coordinating all facets of the agency to ensure that targets are me, relevant policies and guidelines are upheld, and customer satisfaction is achieved.

Education and Background 

Connie is licensed in Health Insurance and Life Insurance by the State of Michigan, with additional certifications in HIPAA and Benefits Administration.

In her free time, Connie delights in camping adventures and cherished moments with loved ones. She shares a joyful marriage of 23 years with her husband Adam Gartee, and together they are proud parents to Zoe and Jennifer.

Overview

Amanda excels in delivering swift and precise quotes presented in a clear, client-friendly format. Her expertise extends to utilizing advanced quoting technology and proposal tools, along with crafting comprehensive side-by-side comparison reports. With a tenure at Franklin Benefits since 2014, Amanda continues to be a valued asset, consistently providing top-notch service to our clients.

Delivering Results for Clients

Amanda plays a pivotal role in guiding clients through the design of their benefit plans. She conducts thorough cost analyses, evaluates sensitivity to benefit changes, and assesses market competitiveness to ensure optimal plan design. Additionally, Amanda offers invaluable internal consultation on the renewal of health and welfare vendor contracts, contributing to the success and satisfaction of our clients.

Area of Expertise

• Handling rating and quoting for new and renewal policies across diverse industries.
• Requesting alternative health and ancillary plans and quotes from carriers.
• Demonstrating remarkable multitasking skills, managing complex financial modeling while effectively communicating with carriers.
• Serving as a liaison between clients and carriers to discuss the cost implications of alternative benefit programs.
• Compiling comprehensive proposals encompassing plan comparisons, employee and employer contribution options, and compliance documents.

Education and Background

Amanda holds licenses in Health and Life Insurance from the State of Michigan.

Outside of work, Amanda enjoys spending quality time with her family. They cherish moments of relaxation with friends, whether it’s camping, boating, or swimming. During the summer months, you can often find them at their seasonal campsite in Byron, creating memories and enjoying the great outdoors.

Overview

Jillian is a key member of the Benefits team, providing expert financial support in areas like data analysis, financial modeling, and investment plan assistance. With her meticulous attention to detail, she streamlines the process of coordinating insurance quotes, ensuring clients receive the best plans. In addition, Jillian oversees the development of proposals, ensuring clients receive accurate and timely information. Since 2015, she has been an invaluable asset to Franklin Benefits, contributing significantly to our success.

Delivering Results for Clients

Jillian is vital in supporting consultants by evaluating the market competitiveness of clients’ employee benefit plans and assisting in designing plans aligned with organizational objectives. She ensures clients feel empowered throughout the renewal process, guiding them with her exceptional project management skills from insurance renewals to decision-making and implementation.

Area of Expertise

• Conducts comprehensive competitive analysis studies on benefits and renewals, ensuring our clients stay ahead in the market.
• Assists public and nonprofit organizations in exploring health plan alternatives, guiding them through the renewal process with expertise and care.
• Utilizes advanced modeling techniques to compare fully insured and self-funded options, empowering clients to make informed decisions.
• Provides invaluable support in conducting competitive vendor searches for employee health benefits sponsors, ensuring our clients receive the best possible options.

Education and Background

Jillian holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Michigan – Flint and is licensed in Health Insurance and Life Insurance by the State of Michigan.

Outside of work, Jillian enjoys family time with her husband Brent, their two children, and two mini-Dachshunds. They love hiking and camping up north, and Jillian’s interests include the culture of the 1970s and classic rock ‘n’ roll music.

Overview

Kristen serves as key support in the Franklin Benefits team, offering indispensable support to the whole FBS team. In addition to offering support, she adeptly manages her own collection of tasks and projects, including crucial responsibilities such as ACA Reporting, commission tracking, and overseeing licensing requirements for both the agency and agents. Her expertise extends to handling special projects, where her attention to detail and organizational talent shine through. Kristen has been with Franklin Benefits since 2012.

Delivering Results for Clients

Kristen establishes strong connections with clients, excelling in communication to ensure they feel heard and valued in every interaction. Her dedication lies in making each encounter personalized and meaningful. Kristen is known for her swift response times, ensuring clients never feel left waiting, and their needs are addressed promptly.

Area of Expertise

• Ensures all client information in our systems is accurate.
• Hits the mark for data accuracy and timeliness, meeting our quality standards and goals.
• Supports the service team by addressing client concerns, brainstorming account fixes, handling renewals, and overseeing daily operations.
• Takes charge of fulfilling compliance requirements for ACA Large Group Reporting, including electronic IRS filing and providing affordability rates for upcoming plan years. Also ensures employees receive Form 1095-C as needed.

Education and Background

Before joining FBS, Kristen spent a decade managing a doctor’s office, where she tackled coding and billing tasks on a daily basis. This experience gave her a solid understanding of how insurance works from the provider’s perspective.

In our office, Kristen is like a ray of sunshine, brightening up our days with her humor. She’s also known for her baking skills and regularly treats us to delicious goodies for holidays, birthdays, or just because. Outside of work, Kristen has been happily married to her husband, Roger, for 20 years and has two children, Micah and Noelle, who keep her busy with their involvement in school sports. Kristen enjoys watching movies and indulging in classic 90’s TV sitcoms. Her family also loves vacationing in the mountains together.

Overview

Breanna possesses an exceptional knack for listening attentively, discerning needs effectively, and prioritizing tasks efficiently, whether interacting with clients, colleagues, or carrier representatives. Her commitment to delivering professional and courteous service consistently impresses both clients and carrier representatives, contributing significantly to our high rate of client retention. Breanna has been an invaluable member of the Franklin Benefits team since 2018, bringing her expertise and dedication to every interaction.

Delivering Results for Clients

Breanna excels in coordinating and managing a range of tasks including health and benefit open enrollment, life events, as well as handling billing and claim issues for our clients. While traditional enrollment methods are still valuable for capturing employee information, Breanna is also adept at leveraging the latest technology for online enrollment and streamlined employee administration. Her ability to adapt to new tools ensures that our processes are efficient and up-to-date, providing our clients with the best possible service.  

Area of Expertise

• Ensuring strict confidentiality of personal and medical information, adhering meticulously to HIPAA laws.
• Proficiently explaining health plans and benefits in a clear, easily understandable manner.
• Addressing inquiries and concerns regarding health plan and benefit design with attentiveness, ensuring both client satisfaction and employee contentment.

Education and Background

Prior to joining FBS, Breanna worked in healthcare for over 10 years, bringing her knowledge of medical terminology and operations in hospitals and provider offices to our clients. Breanna has aced her Health and Life Insurance exams and proudly holds her license through the State of Michigan.

In addition to her professional achievements, Breanna’s personal life is just as vibrant. She’s eagerly preparing for her wedding in September and cherishes time spent with her three children. As a family, they share a passion for camping up north along the shores of Lake Huron. When it comes to sports, Breanna is a devoted fan of the Detroit Tigers and Lions, cheering them on with enthusiasm.

Overview

Bianca consistently delivers professional and courteous service to our valued clients, esteemed business partners, and esteemed colleagues at Franklin. She collaborates closely with Hannah, her teammate, in serving our clients with dedication and expertise. Acting as a proficient liaison between clients and insurance carriers, Bianca adeptly resolves complex service issues, ensuring seamless communication and effective problem-solving. Since joining Franklin Benefits in 2020, Bianca has been an integral part of our team, embodying our commitment to excellence in every interaction.

Delivering Results for Clients

Bianca plays a vital role in our account management team, providing comprehensive support across various areas. From day-to-day account management to resolving issues related to enrollment, premium payments, and escalated claim matters, Bianca ensures smooth operations and client satisfaction. She also takes charge of coordinating and managing a range of tasks including health and benefit open enrollment, life events, billing, and claim issues. Embracing the latest technology, Bianca seamlessly integrates online enrollment and employee administration into our processes, enhancing efficiency and client experience.  

Area of Expertise

• Implements policy and plan changes swiftly and accurately, while also offering evidence of insurance and verifying benefit coverage.
• Addresses clients’ service needs promptly, ensuring seamless implementation of coverages and resolutions to inquiries.
• Collaborates closely with our dedicated accounting team, providing support, accessing resources, and advocating for our clients’ needs in every interaction.

Education and Background

Bianca holds 2 associate degrees from Mott Community College and U of M Flint. She has worked in the healthcare field since 2018.

Outside of work, Bianca shares her life with her husband Adam, who serves as a pharmacist in Flint Township, and their lovely daughter Ellie. Their household is completed by two playful dogs and 3 cats. During her leisure time, Bianca indulges in her passion for sports, enjoys exploring the shopping scene, and of course, she can never resist the temptation of a delicious donut. Fascinated by the ocean, Bianca holds a special interest in sharks.

Overview

Hannah is a valued member of our service department, partnering with Connie and Bianca to provide exceptional support to our client groups. Together, they handle a myriad of tasks including addressing everyday inquiries, processing employee coverage changes, resolving billing issues, and managing claims efficiently. With her ability to stay focused and dedicated to helping our clients, Hannah ensures that tasks are completed promptly and accurately. Additionally, her outgoing and vibrant personality brings positivity and entertainment to the office environment. Since joining Franklin Benefits in 2021, Hannah has been an integral part of our team, contributing to our success with her hard work and enthusiasm.

Delivering Results for Clients

Hannah delivers professional, precise, and prompt customer service to our valued benefit clients. With a commitment to excellence, she consistently provides courteous assistance, always maintaining a positive attitude.

Area of Expertise

• Delivers top-notch professional service to benefit clients, ensuring quality and satisfaction.
• Facilitates smooth resolution of claims and billing issues, prioritizing client needs.
• Manages the entire process of policy and benefit plan implementation meticulously, from start to finish. This includes preparing employer applications, enrollment checklists, and coordinating coverages.
• Demonstrates exceptional organizational skills and proficiency in project management, ensuring tasks are completed accurately and on time.

Education and Background

Hannah is an alumna of Mott Community College, where she honed her skills and knowledge. With previous experience at a doctor’s office, she brings valuable insights into insurance and billing processes.

Outside of work, Hannah finds joy in spending time with loved ones, including her boyfriend Gage, friends, and family. She shares a special bond with her beloved dog Luna, a delightful mix of husky and golden retriever. Hannah is also passionate about basketball, both as a spectator and player, and enjoys unwinding at her parents’ campground.

Overview

Rebecca is an invaluable member of our service department, collaborating closely with account managers to provide comprehensive assistance to employees. Proficient in navigating client benefit portals, she adeptly addresses questions and concerns regarding benefits and claims. Rebecca is equipped to order insurance ID cards, update Coordination of Benefits, and investigate and resolve outstanding claim balances, ensuring a seamless experience for employees. Rebecca became a valued member of our team in the past year.

Delivering Results for Clients

Rebecca excels in managing both electronic and traditional employee open enrollment processes, along with handling new hire, life event, and termination benefit applications for employers. Proficient in Employee Navigator, she confidently addresses enrollment inquiries as they arise. Additionally, Rebecca offers valuable assistance in processing life insurance and beneficiary claims, ensuring smooth and efficient handling of these critical matters.

Area of Expertise

• Swift and effective problem-solving abilities
• Adherence to HIPAA policies and strict medical confidentiality
• Exceptional customer service with a warm and welcoming demeanor
• Proficiency in explaining health and benefit terminology in a clear and understandable manner

Education and Background

Rebecca holds a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration from the University of Michigan – Flint and proudly served in the United States Navy, completing two combat deployments aboard the U.S.S John C. Stennis. With extensive experience in healthcare settings, including hospitals and doctor’s offices, Rebecca is well-versed in medical billing and coding. Her dedication to helping others and delivering exceptional customer service is evident in her work.

Rebecca brings a unique sense of humor to our office, effortlessly connecting with colleagues and fostering a positive atmosphere. Hailing from Texas, she treasures her leisure moments, often found immersed in a good book or creating memories with her son.