Simple Mills is a rapidly-growing company on the forefront of the clean food movement, transforming center store grocery aisles with products made from nutritious, purposeful ingredients. Simple Mills is a female-founded business, started by Katlin Smith in 2012 out of her own Kitchen. In the company’s short history, Simple Mills has disrupted the market to become the #1 bestselling natural baking mix, the #1 bestselling natural cracker, and the #1 bestselling natural cookie.
The company’s mission is to advance the holistic health of the planet and its people by positively impacting the way food is made. Simple Mills is distributed in 25,000+ stores nationally including Whole Foods, Target, Walmart, Kroger, Costco and more, and available online at retailers like Amazon and Thrive Market. The brand’s newest products include: Organic Seed Flour Crackers, Seed & Nut Flour Sweet Thins, and Soft-Baked Almond Flour Bars. Simple Mills has earned broad recognition from top tier media and industry associations- including a segment on our Founder & CEO Katlin Smith on NPR’s How I Built This. Our products have been featured in a wide array of top publications including Vogue, Women's Health, Forbes, Business Insider, mindbodygreen, NOSH and many more. Simple Mills was also a 2020 Health Magazine Snack Award Winner!
Role Description
The Senior Sales Operations Analyst is responsible for driving distributor performance, enhancing sales execution, and managing strategies across national and regional distributor networks (e.g., UNFI, KeHE). This role blends relationship management, cross-functional collaboration, data analysis, and operational coordination to ensure sustainable growth through the distributor channel.
The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, analytical, collaborative, and experienced in CPG sales operations and distributor management.
Distributor Relationship Management
- Serve as the primary point of contact for distributor partners (UNFI, KeHE, etc.).
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key distributor stakeholders (Sales, Demand Planning, Customer Logistics, Commercial Finance).
- Conduct regular calls with replenishment buyers and distributor account managers.
- Communicate product strategy, events, and new launches to distributor teams.
Inventory & Performance Management
- Monitor distributor inventory levels, fill rates, spoilage risks, and on-time pickup rates.
- Resolve operational issues to ensure optimal service and execution.
- Maintain weekly inventory reporting and share actionable insights with internal stakeholders.
- Analyze sales and operational data to identify trends and drive performance improvements.
Sales Operations & Program Management
- Lead new item setup, including case pack changes, images, certifications, and pricing updates.
- Manage distributor-level submissions for new items, programs, and promotions.
- Own and update price lists, distributor codes, and related documentation to ensure accuracy.
- Partner with Finance to track deductions, chargebacks, and compliance requirements.
- Collaborate cross-functionally (Sales, Marketing, Supply Chain, Finance) to align distributor programs with company goals.
- Coordinate sample and mockup requests for distributor sell-in meetings.
- Maintain and optimize sales team trackers, ensuring accurate and useful tools for execution.
Performs other duties as assigned
Requirements
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Bachelor’s degree required.
- 1–3 years of experience in sales operations, supply chain, or related field.
- Strong knowledge of distributor systems, operations, and promotional processes.
- Experience working with UNFI, KeHE, or other major natural/conventional distributors preferred.
- Proven ability to analyze data, manage complex logistics, and execute sales strategies.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational skills.
- Proficiency in Excel, CRM systems, and distributor portals (e.g., iUNFI, KeHE Connect).
- Experience in natural, organic, or specialty food/beverage categories.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.
- Collaborative team player with a proactive, solution-oriented mindset.
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 at Simple Mills
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.
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Competitive Compensation: This role offers a salary range of $80,000 to $95,000.
- Performance-Based Bonuses: Eligible for a quarterly sales bonus tied to sales performance, plus an annual bonus based on individual performance.
- 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.
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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
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Remote working may be considered for qualified candidates from a designated location in the United States (the new hire’s permanent residence, as documented in our HR System, Rippling) if willing and able to travel regularly to the Chicago office. Sufficient internet access to support video conferencing required.
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.
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.
