Best Practices for Employee Benefits, with Jonathan Walker

Jonathan Walker, CHRO at Equitas Health, leads HR strategy for nearly 600 employees at the multistate health organization based in Columbus, Ohio, serving LGBTQ+ and HIV-impacted communities. Walker shared his advice for implementing inclusive employee benefits on a budget during the recent July 2025 EN:Insights Forum.

Here are a few additional insights from the conversation.

How do you approach aligning benefits with the needs of a diverse, mission-driven workforce like Equitas Health? 

Walker said his team prioritizes employee voice through structured surveys, listening sessions, and open channels of feedback. 

As a nonprofit, budget must be tight. As you offer all these benefits, do you have any creative strategies for how to make it work financially? 

The HR team at Equitas Health focuses on cost-effective ways to reduce employee stress, such as covering 85% of employee premiums for health insurance. They also help employees navigate eligibility for the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. 

What’s one benefit-related priority that you’re hoping to evolve or improve? 

Walker noted that his top priority is making dependent coverage more affordable. 

What is one piece of advice you’d give other HR leaders who are rethinking their benefits strategy this year? 

Beyond workplace surveys, Walker advised HR executives to listen to what’s being said in meetings, exit interviews, and in conversations with peers.