Trade Planning Specialist

Who We Are

At C.A. Carlin, we take brands to new heights. We are one of the leading privately held sales agencies in the industry. Thanks to nimble growth and associations with our operating partners, C.A. Fortune and C.A. Ferolie, we have built brand value that is unlike any other in the CPG industry.

What We Do 

Since our start in 1962, we have built industry relationships on the foundation of trust and action. We turn information into insight. We convert insight into programs. We drive programs that consistently deliver results to our clients, on their timeline.

We have more than 300 associates and multiple offices throughout the country. We represent top brands in many categories such as confection, snack, grocery, beverage, frozen, dairy etc. 

Overview of the Role  

• The candidate will act as liaison between C.A. Carlin's Sales Team and select clients’ trade finance teams to ensure timely and accurate entry of customer promotions.  

• The candidate will be responsible for learning a variety of trade management systems and enter plans for assigned clients. In addition to your day-to-day role, the Trade Planner will help develop formal procedures and timelines for planning so the Carlin Group always exceeds our clients’ expectations.  

• The ideal candidate would be well organized, detail oriented with excellent telephone, communication skills and able to work independently. 

•  Must possess good computer skills as well as be a team player with a positive attitude. Previous experience using Microsoft Office with focus on Excel and Outlook is a plus.  

• Hybrid - Schaumburg, IL; in office 2 days/ week  

• Salary range $53,000 - $58,000 depending on experience, qualifications and skills. This position is non-exempt.  

• At C.A. we’re not looking for perfection, just people that want to commit to a us and grow their careers long-term. We are on a mission to build better brands for consumers and their families. If you’re looking for a sign to apply, here it is!   

What you will do at C.A Carlin 

• Maintain promotional plans for clients in a variety of 3rd party systems  

• Gather promotional information from sales  

• Understand and review promotional plans for accuracy  

• Assist sales and clients with questions or problems  

• Work closely with Deduction Management to ensure plans are entered in a timely manner  

• Provide excellent, timely accurate and professional customer service  

What You Should Bring to the Table  

• Experience in CPG, especially grocery/confectionary categories   

• High School diploma required  

• Computer proficiency required  

• Organized and detail oriented  

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills  

• Strong multitasking skills  

• High attention to detail  

• Must be able to solve problems with urgency  

You Will Stand out if you have  

• You have extensive CPG experience  
• Prior experience with a broker/manufacturer a plus 
• Prior experience with Blue Planner, Exceedra, and Vividly a plus but willing to train  

Perks

• PTO and Sick Days
• 11 paid company holidays per year
• 1 Floating Holiday
• 2 paid volunteer days per year
• 3 months fully paid parental leave (regardless of gender)
• Medical, dental, and vision
• Paid company life insurance
• 401k with company match
• Summer hours (half day Fridays from Memorial Day thru Labor Day)
• Work from home flexibility

Come As You Are

C.A. is committed to making our company more inclusive. Diversity fuels our innovation and better connects us to our clients, our colleagues, and our communities. Based on research, we know that women and other marginalized groups tend to apply to roles only when their experience perfectly matches the job description. That said, we encourage you to apply if you meet the majority of qualifications, especially if this role aligns with your career trajectory.