Senior Inventory Planner Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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.

The Sr Supply Planner will be a critical role on the Supply Chain Team. The position will report to the Supply Planning Manager and responsibilities will include:

• Develop supply plans that ensure optimal inventory levels of finished goods are maintained to meet or exceed customer fill rate targets
• Communicate production plans, issue POs, and maintain forecasts with co-manufacturing partners; work closely with co-manufacturing partners to align on production schedules, resolve capacity/supply constraints, and ensure attainment of production needs
• Strategically incorporate new products into production timelines; partner closely with cross-functional teams to support successful new item launches
• Develop and maintain constrained production plans and inventory levels to proactively align capacity with demand
• Identify & proactively communicate supply and demand constraints, imbalances, and trade-offs, assessing potential impacts to service levels, inventory, and fill rate performance
• Partner with customer logistics team to monitor and manage aging inventory and implement actions to minimize spoilage and product write-offs
• Play an active role in the S&OP process by providing supply insights, identifying risks, and ensuring cross-functional alignment on key demand & supply decisions
• Partner closely with demand planning team to provide feedback on order trends and demand variability
• Drive continuous improvement through reporting, measuring, and tracking of key performance indicators
• Proactively identify and communicate supply and demand risks that could impact business performance, and develop action plans to mitigate disruptions
• Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to perform scenario analysis, recommend inventory strategies, establish inventory targets, and execute plans
• Lead supply risk assessments and mitigation activities
• Performs other projects as assigned

Performs other projects as assigned

• Minimum of 2-4 years of related experience in the CPG industry in supply chain operations
• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, Mathematics, Finance or other Operations related field is required
• Must have exceptional analytical skills and be able to work with complex data
• High proficiency in tools used for data analysis (i.e. excel, etc.)
• Proficiency in PowerPoint and data visualization
• Detail oriented with the ability to work with speed and accuracy
• Ability to effectively work and build strong relationships internally across functions and externally with contract manufacturing partners
• Ability to thrive in ambiguity, creatively solve problems with incomplete information, and roll up sleeves.
• Self-directed and results focused. Bias towards action, able to synthesize multiple pieces of information and act decisively.Strong sense of urgency and ownership of resolution.
• Excellent problem solving, organization, and planning skills. A strong multi-tasker with a proven ability to prioritize and manage deadlines
• Strong written and verbal communicator, ability to effectively communicate across multiple functions internal and external to the organization
• Understanding of Supply Chain Management principles and efficiency drivers
• Previous experience with NetSuite or ERP systems is a plus
• Knowledge of advanced planning solutions 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.

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.

• 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.

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 $75,000 to $90,000
• 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 fully—our 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.

We’re committed to taking care of our people—so you can focus on making an impact.

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.

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.