Associate, Innovation Sourcing

Simple Mills is on a mission to transform the way food is made—creating nourishing products with astounding ingredients and amazing taste. Founded in 2012 by Katlin Smith, our brand has redefined center-aisle grocery by delivering better-for-you products made with unique, nutrient-dense ingredients. Today, we’re a category leader and the #1 natural brand in multiple segments, with distribution in over 30,000 stores nationwide. Now, as part of Flowers Foods, we’re entering an exciting new phase of growth—expanding our reach, accelerating innovation, and amplifying brand awareness, all while preserving the integrity of what makes Simple Mills special. Our commitment to using simple, high-quality ingredients ensures that every bite is both delicious and nutritious. Whether it’s watermelon seed flour in our cookies or butternut squash in our crackers, we craft our products with innovative, wholesome ingredients that deliver extraordinary taste. Our work has been recognized by Fast Company as a Brand That Matters and a Most Innovative Company, and has been featured in Vogue, Forbes, Women’s Health, and NPR’s How I Built This. In 2024, Inc. named us one of its Best Workplaces, reflecting our dedication to fostering an inspiring and inclusive environment where passionate individuals can make a difference. Join us as we shape the future of food. Learn more at www.simplemills.com. Role Description The Associate, Innovation Sourcing will play a key supporting role on the Procurement team, helping identify, evaluate, and manage new and existing ingredient suppliers for innovation. Reporting to the Sourcing Manager, Innovation, this role will support ingredient and supplier research, communication, and coordination across projects that contribute to the company’s product development and innovation pipeline. In this position, you’ll: Conduct research to identify new ingredient opportunities aligned with our brand’s mission Evaluate supplier information across quality, certifications, cost, and sustainability considerations Coordinate communications with new and existing suppliers under guidance from the Sourcing Manager Help manage timelines and documentation related to sourcing innovation projects Collaborate cross-functionally with R&D, Innovation, and Procurement teams Track and manage multiple sourcing initiatives in parallel with minimal oversight Participate in developing sourcing strategies and identifying opportunities for efficiency or innovation Perform other projects as assigned. Requirements Bachelor’s degree required Minimum of 2 years of experience in the food industry Strong written and verbal communication skills across email, Slack, meetings, and calls Ability to independently research ingredients and suppliers, and summarize findings clearly Comfort navigating ambiguity and juggling multiple projects Proficiency in Microsoft Excel Experience with TraceGains, ERP, or ingredient spec systems is a plus Previous experience in a natural/organic food CPG company, ingredient supplier, food startup, or innovation agency is a plus A personal connection to the Simple Mills mission and a fervent desire to improve the food system to help people and the planet thrive.  Intrinsic qualities we hope to find in our new team member: Self-starter with a proactive mindset Strong follow-through and accountability without needing micromanagement Resourceful, curious, and eager to learn Clear communicator who can thrive in hybrid async work environments Positive attitude and team-first mindset Comfortable in fast-paced, evolving environments Benefits Working at Simple Mills At Simple Mills, we’re not just building a brand—we’re leading a movement that’s transforming how food is made and enjoyed. If you’re passionate about purpose-driven work and crave a role where you can have a meaningful impact, this is your chance to be part of something bigger. Why Join Us? Be a Change-Maker Play a key role in redefining the food industry, crafting products that nourish people and contribute to a healthier planet. Thrive in a Mission-Driven Community Work alongside a dynamic team of innovators and food lovers who are committed to positive change and bold ideas. A Workplace Where You Belong We foster an environment where every voice is heard, valued, and empowered. Inclusion and belonging are at the heart of our culture, ensuring that everyone can thrive. A Culture of Integrity and Impact We don’t just talk about doing good—we live it. Our team is committed to ethical practices, responsible sourcing, and making decisions that drive real, positive change. Grow with People-First Leadership Our supportive leadership team is dedicated to mentorship, collaboration, and your long-term success Continuous Learning & Development Whether through hands-on training, innovative learning platforms, or career growth opportunities, we invest in your professional development. At Simple Mills, you’ll have the chance to make an impact while working in a collaborative and inspiring environment. If you’re ready to shape the future of food, let’s talk. Benefits We recognize that our people are our greatest asset. That’s why we offer a highly competitive total rewards package designed to support your financial well-being, health, and overall quality of life.  Competitive Compensation: This role offers a salary range of $68,000 - $75,000 Performance-Based Bonuses: Eligible for an annual bonus based on individual and company performance, calculated at the end of the fiscal year. Comprehensive Health & Financial Benefits: Robust medical, dental, and vision plans, along with a 401(k) retirement plan to support your long-term financial security.  Work-Life Flexibility: Enjoy the freedom to thrive both professionally and personally with unlimited PTO, Live Full Fridays (where afternoons are yours to recharge), and a three-week sabbatical after five years of service—because we believe your best work happens when you have the time to rest and refocus. Health & Wellness Perks: Lifestyle stipends and exclusive product perks to enhance your well-being—because your health and happiness matter.  We’re committed to taking care of our people—so you can focus on making an impact.    Work Model at Simple Mills Our work model is role-dependent, and team focused. With remote, hybrid, or in-office positions, each role is classified by what best supports the needs of the team. This position will be hybrid: a balance of in-person and virtual work. Hybrid employees will work from our Chicago, IL office at least once per week. When working remotely, employees must work from a designated location in the United States (the new hire’s permanent residence, as documented in our HR System, Rippling) with sufficient internet access to support video conferencing. Safety protocols in accordance with CDC recommendations are followed.   At Simple Mills, we are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and inclusion. Equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, past or present military service, physical or mental disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. All aspects of employment are decided on the basis of business need, job requirements, and individual qualifications. #LI-DNI Simple Mills is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, Simple Mills will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact careers@simplemills.com.