Job Opportunities
SPINS LLC is the leading provider of industry reporting and consulting services to the rapidly growing natural products industry. We offer a range of retail sales tracking and consumer information services used by current participants in the natural and organic products industry as well as companies seeking new opportunities in this expanding market. SPINS is committed to supporting the growing movement toward healthy and natural alternatives by providing the reliable marketing information needed to make sound business decisions.
Currently, SPINS is hiring for the following positions:
Business Analyst
Quality Assurance Analyst
Entry Level Developer
On-Site Business Consultant
On-Site Business Consultant - The Fresh Market
SPINS is always looking for talented, passionate people to join our team. Please check back often for new openings and opportunities, or send your resume with a brief cover letter for our files to jobs3@spins.com.
Business Analyst
SPINS is seeking a Business Analyst in our Schaumburg, IL office. This position requires exceptional interpersonal skills, an entrepreneurial spirit, an analytical and technical aptitude and a willingness to help build and shape the development of SPINS products, services and client relationships.
Job Description:
- Service client specific business needs by utilizing multiple proprietary data sources.
- Produce and manage the delivery of standard and custom reports using Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Access and proprietary analytical tools.
- Verify accuracy of reports prior to delivery.
- Train clients on SPINS proprietary analytical tools and data measures.
- Professionally address client questions regarding data measures, products and services, involving subject matter experts as required.
- Assist Sales Executives and Business Consultants with client initiatives.
- Keep abreast of natural product trends and events.
Requirements/Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business Administration or a related discipline.
- Intermediate user of Microsoft Office with advanced knowledge of Microsoft Excel.
- Excellent problem solving skills.
- High level of quantitative intuition and attention to detail.
- Ability to think critically and communicate effectively with a wide range of users.
- Strong writing and presentation skills.
- Demonstrated ability to learn and apply analytical tools.
- Ability to work independently.
- Internship(s) in Market Research, Consumer Packaged Goods or a related field preferred.
Quality Assurance Analyst
SPINS is currently seeking seeking a Quality Assurance Analyst in our Schaumburg, IL office. The Quality Assurance Analyst is on a team responsible for the analysis, design, development, and testing of applications that optimize storage, and retrieve information for data analysis and reporting. Business Intelligence and Reporting tools are used that allow OLAP analysis and access to standard reports developed by SPINS. The incumbent is responsible for testing solutions that meet defined business objectives and functional requirements.
Job Description
- Analyzes requirements, and develops test cases that ensure requirements are met by packaged and custom developed solutions.
- Executes and logs results of test cases.
- Uses OLAP tools to retrieve information from databases to verify proper processing of information in standard reports.
- Creates and performs regression test plans to validate the migration of applications to new software and hardware versions.
- Conducts problem diagnosis to resolve application problems.
- Communicates effectively with developers and system administrators to insure production implementation of quality solutions.
- May develop automated testing scripts using third party tools for stress testing applications.
- Uses a software development methodology that is consistent with industry best practices.
- Performs related work as assigned.
Requirements/Qualifications
- A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or Management Information Systems with 3 years or more in related fields of experience.
- Ability to develop detailed test places from Use Cases and Functional Requirements documentation.
- Effective communication and report writing skills.
- Proven data analysis, data verification, and problem-solving abilities.
- Experience with statistical reporting and analysis.
- Good project management skills and/or substantial exposure to project-based work structures .
- 1- 2 yrs of experience with SQL and large database environments.
- 1- 2 yrs with Linux or Unix environments.
- Experience using third party packaged, or open source reporting tools and/or Business Intelligence tools a plus.
Supervision
- Position will receive supervision and direction from the Project Director.
- There is a wide degree of creativity expected and considerable latitude for individual judgment and discretion.
- Assignments are made verbally and in writing, and work is reviewed through conference, observation of results and goals achieved.
- Performance will be measured by the EVP of Information Technology with input from the Project Director, developers, system administrators, and business stakeholders.
Entry Level Developer
SPINS is seeking an Entry Level Developer in our Schaumburg, IL office. The Entry Level Developer is a contributor on a team responsible for the analysis, design, development, and testing of applications that optimize the retrieval and display of information for data analysis and reporting. The Information Builders’ WebFocus platform is used to develop dashboards and parameter driven reports using information stored in large scale relational database systems. The incumbent is responsible for developing solutions that meet defined business objectives and functional requirements. As an entry level team member this position will be given assignments of increasing complexity to gain competencies required of an IT Software Developer .
Job Description
- Analyzes requirements, and develops use cases that ensure requirements are met by custom developed solutions.
- Develops software solutions, under supervision, that utilize Javascript user interfaces, SQL data access, and Microsoft Excel with Visual Basic extensions.
- Uses a software development methodology that is consistent with industry best practices but tailored to be practical in the specific environment in which we operate.
- Conducts problem diagnosis and resolution to correct application problems.
- Works closely with the database and system administrators in database design, sizing, SQL reviews and related issues to insure high quality application deployments.
- Supports migration of applications to new software and hardware versions and platforms.
- Performs related work as assigned.
Supervision Received
- Position will receive supervision and direction from an IT Software Developer.
- Will receive training on the Information Builder’s WebFocus reporting package and its Focus Programming language.
- Assignments are made orally and in writing, and work is reviewed through conference, observation of results and goals achieved.
- Performance will be measured by the IT Software Developer with input from project managers, other developers and business stakeholders.
Requirements/Qualifications
- A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or Management Information Systems
- Experience with Linux and Windows operating environments
- Experience with SQL, and Javascript, and MS Visual Basic for Applications programming languages
- Knowledge of the principles, practices, and techniques of computer programming, systems design and documentation standards.
- Experience using third party packaged, or open source reporting tools and/or Business Intelligence tools a plus.
On-Site Business Consultant
We are currently seeking an on-site Business Consultant for one of the fastest growing retailers of natural and specialty products located in the Minneapolis, MN area. This position requires exceptional interpersonal skills, an entrepreneurial spirit, an analytical and technical aptitude and a willingness to help build and shape the development of SPINS products and services as well as the success of and relationship with a key SPINS retailer partner. The ideal candidate will have previous experience in the Natural and Specialty-Gourmet Products Industry (e.g.; Natural/Specialty food stores, distributors, manufacturers, and other industry groups) and a broad and deep knowledge of brands and products that drive the industry.
Position Description
Leadership
Provide thorough leadership and value-added support to client’s business by utilizing SPINS products and services.
- Manage selected analysis and consulting activities at client to meet sales and client service targets for both strategic partner and SPINS.
- Utilize full suite of SPINS and technology partner products/services to meet the business needs of client.
- Provide subject matter expertise in support of strategic client business issues (e.g. Category Management, Assortment Management and Shelf Management) including coordination of resources as needed from larger SPINS team including Content Development team, IT/Operations team, and others.
- Apply SPINS analytic products and services to business issues to produce actionable results for the client.
- Act as a natural and specialty products industry consultant and thought leader to the client’s management team while also building strong relationships and demonstrating measurable ROI for SPINS products and services.
- Stay informed of natural, organic, and specialty trends and events.
Business Insight
Provide valuable insight/support to the client in their strategic initiatives as defined by mutual objective setting with the client.
- Provide client support with routine and custom category analytics and provide fact-based recommendations. Data pulls and trended analysis in support of client projects are included as a portion of category analytics.
- Make analytical presentations to client groups and members and also conduct training with new client associates regarding SPINS products and services and coordinate ongoing training/communication of SPINS enhancements across client organization
- Manage and oversee successful execution of database management functions including refreshes, restatements, data inquiries and routine/repetitive reporting.
- Build and maintain ongoing relationships with respective client partners by providing objective, fact-based, business insight and support in the development of category business plans and routine category management activities.
- Review industry studies with client to insure they are aware of industry trends, initiatives, and innovation.
- Seek opportunities overall to add value to client partner and SPINS based on effective utilization of SPINS services and consultant expertise to further build credibility of both organizations in the marketplace.
Requirements/Qualifications
A Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with four or more years’ experience with a specialty products distributor, broker, retailer or manufacturer, or with an information supplier/market research firm serving the CPG/grocery industry
- Advanced user level in MS Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook
- Strong experience in Category management and Syndicated Data (scanner and panel) analysis using SPINS, The Nielsen Co., IRI or similar data. Space Management experience a plus.
- Strong analytical skills, interpreting data, market research ability
- Demonstrated strength in verbal and written communication for both in person and extensive telephone communication
- Demonstrated experience/ability to apply analytic products to CPG business issues within both branded and private label environments.
- Proven track record in achieving measurable business results. Demonstrated ability to develop and write proposals and make small to medium group presentations.
- Ability to build strong relationships within all levels of an organization, both in person and remotely
- Ability to train and educate others with outstanding writing and presentation skills
- Experience in specialty and/or natural retail and private label business a plus including P&L responsibility and category management
On-Site Business Consultant - The Fresh Market
We are currently seeking an on-site Business Consultant for our Specialty – Gourmet retailer, The Fresh Market, in Greensboro, NC. This position requires exceptional interpersonal skills, an entrepreneurial spirit, an analytical and technical aptitude and a willingness to help build and shape the development of SPINS, Inc. products and services as well as the success of and relationship with a key SPINS retailer partner. The ideal candidate will have previous experience in the Specialty-Gourmet Products Industry (e.g.; Specialty food stores, distributors, manufacturers, and other industry groups) and a broad and deep knowledge of brands and products that drive the industry.
Position Description
Leadership
Provide thorough leadership and value-added support to client’s business by utilizing SPINS products and services.
- Manage selected analysis and consulting activities at client to meet sales and client service targets for both strategic partner and SPINS.
- Utilize full suite of SPINS and technology partner products/services to meet the business needs of client.
- Provide subject matter expertise in support of strategic client business issues (e.g. Category Management, Assortment Management and Shelf Management) including coordination of resources as needed from larger SPINS team including Content Development team, IT/Operations team, and others.
- Apply SPINS analytic products and services to business issues to produce actionable results for the client.
- Act as a specialty and natural products industry consultant and thought leader to the client’s management team while also building strong relationships and demonstrating measurable ROI for SPINS products and services.
- Stay informed of natural, organic, and specialty trends and events.
Business Insight
Provide valuable insight/support to the client in their strategic initiatives as defined by mutual objective setting with the client.
- Provide client support with routine and custom category analytics and provide fact-based recommendations. Data pulls and trended analysis in support of client projects are included as a portion of category analytics.
- Make analytical presentations to client groups and members and also conduct training with new client associates regarding SPINS products and services and coordinate ongoing training/communication of SPINS enhancements across client organization.
- Manage and oversee successful execution of database management functions including refreshes, restatements, data inquiries and routine/repetitive reporting.
- Build and maintain ongoing relationships with respective client partners by providing objective, fact-based, business insight and support in the development of category business plans and routine category management activities.
- Review SPINS and Specialty and Natural Channel industry studies with client to insure they are aware of industry trends, initiatives, and innovation.
- Seek opportunities overall to add value to client partner and SPINS based on effective utilization of SPINS services and consultant expertise to further build credibility of both organizations in the marketplace.
Requirements/Qualifications
A Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with four or more years’ experience with a specialty products distributor, broker, retailer or manufacturer, or with an information supplier/market research firm serving the CPG/grocery industry.
- Advanced user level in MS Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook.
- Strong experience in Category management and Syndicated Data (scanner and panel) analysis using SPINS, The Nielsen Co., IRI or similar data. Space Management experience a plus.
- Strong analytical skills, interpreting data, market research ability.
- Demonstrated strength in verbal and written communication for both in person and extensive telephone communication.
- Demonstrated experience/ability to apply analytic products to CPG business issues within both branded and private label environments.
- Proven track record in achieving measurable business results. Demonstrated ability to develop and write proposals and make small to medium group presentations.
- Ability to build strong relationships within all levels of an organization, both in person and remotely.
- Ability to train and educate others with outstanding writing and presentation skills .
- Experience in specialty and/or natural retail and private label business a plus including P&L responsibility and category management.
How to Apply
Send resume with e-mail cover letter of 200 words or less to jobs3@spins.com.
No calls please.
SPINS Employment Policy
SPINS is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, marital status, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, age, military or veteran status, mental and physical disabilities, or medical conditions of an applicant. No application will be rejected as a result of a disability that, with reasonable accommodation, does not prevent performance of the essential job duties.