Senior Financial Analyst, Operations

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 Sr. Financial Analyst will be a critical role in helping enhance Simple Mills’ Operations Finance team.  This role will further our strategic objectives of optimizing financial health and profitability to maximize Simple Mills’ impact as a wellness leader and creating a best-in-class operations network. The position will report to the Operations Finance Sr. Manager and responsibilities will include:

• Working with stakeholders across the business, including senior leaders, to develop and manage the monthly forecast and Annual Operating Plan for Logistics, Quality, Operations and Capital Expense.
• Partner closely with all cross-functional stakeholders in Operations (Procurement, Manufacturing, Customer Logistics, Quality) to mitigate risks and unlock opportunities to exceed our financial plans.
• Prepare and present monthly financial reports to cross functional leads, highlighting key insights and strategic recommendations.
• Conduct monthly financial review meetings with cross-functional teams to discuss spending, variances, and budgeting adjustments.
• Assist in the analysis of COGS monthly operational results and variance analytics with the Accounting team and understand impact on operational performance.
• Assist in developing and tracking KPIs for Manufacturing Operations such as efficiency, yield, waste reduction and downtime.
• Develop and recommend capital expenditure budgets and conduct capital expenditure project analyses.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and implement recommendations to enhance efficiency.
• Completing ad-hoc financial analysis to support cross-functional decision-making and present findings and recommendations to company leaders.
• Supporting Simple Mills’ people development by strengthening the financial acumen of cross-functional partners and building a foundation of strong financial stewardship.

Requirements

• 2+ years of experience in Finance, with experience in Cost Accounting preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in finance or accounting is required
• In-depth knowledge of General Accounting and Cost Accounting principles
• Experience with ERP & Financial systems, preferably NetSuite
• Proficiency in software such as Excel, Word, and PowerPoint

• A passion for natural food and healthy eating as well as a desire to change the way we think about ingredient labels.

Intrinsic qualities we hope to find in our new team member:

• Self-starter with ability to work independently and solve problems with minimal guidance.
• Thrives under ambiguity and excited by change.
• Excellent organization and time management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
• Keen attention to detail
• Excellent leadership, interpersonal, and skills
• Ability to build alignment across a fast-growing organization.
• Commitment to teamwork and collaboration
• Excellent leadership & interpersonal skills
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Proven ability to excel in a fast-paced environment.

• Flexibility, adaptability, and a proactive approach to a rapidly evolving industry and company.

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 $80,000 to $95,000.  

• 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. 

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 [email protected].