R&D Manager, Portfolio Transformation

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.

About the role

The R&D Manager, Portfolio Transformation will play a critical leadership role in Chicago, driving technical strategy and execution across renovation, productivity, and commercialization initiatives. This role will lead cross-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 the Sr. Director of R&D, Portfolio Transformation.

Responsibilities

• Execute portfolio transformation strategy, including alternate ingredient evaluation and approval, capacity expansion commercialization, and production support.
• Create and prepare technical documentation, ensure data integrity, and deliver decision-ready reporting.
• Lead and execute onsite plant trials, ingredient screening, sensory evaluation, and experimental design with technical rigor.
• Resolve formulation and ingredient challenges by diagnosing root causes, aligning options, and escalating risks.
• Manage resources, priorities, and capacity to deliver project goals, timelines, and business commitments.
• Build trust, clarity, 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.
• Own renovation, productivity, and commercialization projects from concept through launch with clear governance.
• Align Marketing, Operations, Quality, Procurement, Finance, and suppliers around executable technical plans.
• Anticipate risks, tradeoffs, resource needs, and decisions to keep projects moving efficiently.
• Steward the Simple Mills mission through product decisions that advance quality, integrity, 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 goals in technical decisions.

Requirements

• Minimum 8 years in R&D in the Food Industry
• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or a related technical field
• Experience in Bakery formulation preferred
• Strong data interpretation, sensory evaluation, and problem-solving skills
• Knowledge of natural ingredients, clean-label formulation, and certifications (Non-GMO Project Verified, GFCO, Organic, Non-UPF Verified)
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills
• 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 Excel, Outlook, and 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 (e.g., TraceGains, 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

Benefits

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 $105,000 to $120,000
• 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

Schedule

This position will be hybrid: a balance of in-person and virtual work. Hybrid employees will work from our Chicago, IL office at least twice per week, and as needed based on project work. This role may require travel up to 30% to support project work, supplier engagement, manufacturing trials, and cross-functional collaboration. When working remotely, employees must work from a designated location in the United States with sufficient internet access to support video conferencing.

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.
• 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: Hands-on training, innovative learning platforms, or career growth opportunities, we invest in your professional development.