R&D Manager, Portfolio Transformation

Company Description

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 were a category leader and the #1 natural brand in multiple segments with distribution in over 30000 stores nationwide.

Now as part of Flowers Foods were entering an exciting new phase of growthexpanding 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 its 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 Womens Health and NPRs 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 .

Role Description

TheR&D Manager PortfolioTransformationwill play a critical leadership role inChicago driving technical strategy and execution across renovation productivity and commercialization initiatives. This role will leadcross-functional product transformation work translate business priorities into clear technical plans and guide formulation decisions that strengthen product quality operational feasibility cost performance and brand integrity.

The position will report to theSr. Director of R&D Portfolio Transformationand responsibilities will include:

TechnicalExpertise

• Execute portfolio transformation strategyincluding alternate ingredient evaluationand approval capacity expansioncommercializationand production support.

• Create and preparetechnical documentationensuredata integrity anddeliverdecision-readyreporting.

• Lead and execute onsite plant trials ingredient screening sensory evaluation and experimental design with technical rigor.

• Resolveformulation and ingredientchallenges by diagnosing root causes aligning options and escalating risks.

Leadership

• Manage resources priorities and capacity todeliverprojectgoals timelines and business commitments.

• Buildtrustclarity and accountability across contributors cross-functional partners and external collaborators.

• Coach and develop team capability through clear feedback technical guidance and strong decision-making.

• Champion a culture that balances speed rigor learning accountability and collaborative problem-solving.

ProjectManagement

• Own renovation productivity and commercialization projects from concept through launchwithclear governance.

• Align Marketing Operations Quality ProcurementFinanceandsuppliers around executable technical plans.

• Anticipate risks tradeoffs resource needs anddecisions tokeepprojectsmoving efficiently.

BusinessAcumen

• Steward the Simple Mills missionthroughproduct decisionsthatadvancequalityintegrity and trust.

• Improve ways of working that increase efficiency strengthen partnership and scale R&D execution.

• Use consumer category cost and manufacturing insights to prioritize high-impact opportunities.

• Balance quality ingredient standards feasibility timing and financial goalsintechnical decisions.
• Performs other projects as assigned

Position Requirements

• Minimum 8 yearsinR&D in the FoodIndustry
• Bachelors degree in Food Scienceor a related technical field.
• Experience inBakeryformulationpreferred
• Strong datainterpretationsensoryevaluationandproblem-solvingskills
• Knowledgeofnaturalingredientsclean-labelformulationandcertifications (Non-GMOProjectVerifiedGFCOOrganicNon-UPFVerified)
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills
• The ability to travel up to 30% to support project work supplier engagement manufacturing trials and cross-functional collaboration.
• Collaborative mindset and strong interpersonal communication skills.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office especially ExcelOutlookand Forms
• Ability to work independently and prioritize competing tasks and timelines
• Self-starter with strong attention to detail and follow-through
• Prior experience in the CPG (consumer packaged goods) food industry
• Familiarity with R&D data tools ( Electronic Lab Notebooks)
• A personal connection to the Simple Mills mission and a fervent desire to improve the food system to help people and the planet thrive.

Working at Simple Mills

At Simple Mills were not just building a brand were leading a movement thats transforming how food is made and enjoyed. If youre 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 dont 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 youll have the chance to make an impact while working in a collaborative and inspiring environment. If youre ready to shape the future of food lets talk.

Benefits

We recognize that our people are our greatest asset. Thats 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 $105000 - $120000
• Annual Bonus Opportunity: Eligible for an annual bonus as part of our commitment to recognizing team contributions and company success.
• Holistic Benefits: A variety of health financial and wellness programs to help you feel your best and plan for the future.
• Time to Recharge: We believe your best work comes when you have space to rest refocus and show up fullyour time off approach is built with that in mind.
• Everyday Well-Being: From lifestyle perks to innovation shipments we find meaningful ways to support you in living simply and feeling well.

Were committed to taking care of our peopleso 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 ourChicagoIL office at least twice per week and as needed based on project role may require travel up to 30% to support project work supplier engagement manufacturing trials and cross-functional working remotely employees must work from a designated locationin the United States(the new hires permanent residence as documented in our HR System Rippling) with sufficient internet access to support video conferencing. Safety protocolsin accordance withCDC 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

Required Experience:

Manager