2nd level Appeal Denied...appealing to benefits admin.

Highmark BCBS denied my second level appeal. I am now preparing my appeal to my employers benefits administrator (our benefits are handled by an organization that provides benefits for many independent employers like mine). Any suggestions on how to handle this next step. I have asked for a face-to-face hearing with either the external committee who will do the review or at least the Benefits board who will take the committee's recommendations and make the final decision. If I do not get approved at this level I will file a civil action citing ERISA.