Data Associate, Sales & Commercial Capabilities

COMPANY OVERVIEW We exist to make food the world loves. But we do more than that. Our company is a place that prioritizes being a force for good, a place to expand learning, explore new perspectives and reimagine new possibilities, every day. We look for people who want to bring their best — bold thinkers with big hearts who challenge one another and grow together. Because becoming the undisputed leader in food means surrounding ourselves with people who are hungry for what’s next.​ 
 OVERVIEW As a Data Associate on the Sales & Trade Capabilities team, you will support the Post Audit and Trade Payments function for the US markets by researching, validating, and resolving customer post-audit claims that protect General Mills' trade dollars. This individual-contributor role works closely with Field Selling Assistants (FSAs), Customer Account teams, and Trade Payments Specialists to keep claim data accurate across Trade Planner, SAP, and the Post Audit Dashboard. You will build strong foundational skills in trade finance operations while contributing to the team's ongoing standardization and automation initiatives. KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES Research and validate customer post-audit claims by reviewing supporting documentation (signed presentation sheets, invoices, proof of performance, scanner data) against Trade Planner and system-of-record data. Log and maintain claim status (Valid, Invalid, Not Researched, Seeking Cancellation, Paid) accurately and within defined turnaround times in the Post Audit tracker/dashboard. Coordinate with FSAs and Customer Account teams to request missing documentation or clarification needed to resolve open claims. Support Single Funding activities by compiling claim detail and completing Single Funding templates, and assist with Account Trial Balance (ATB) reconciliation for post-audit deductions and repayments. Maintain data accuracy across Trade Planner, SAP, and the Post Audit Dashboard (Tableau), and support routine and ad hoc reporting for the Trade Payments team and leadership. Follow documented Trade Payment processing procedures and internal controls, and support standardization/automation initiatives (e.g., AI-assisted data extraction) to reduce manual effort. Respond promptly to FSA, Customer Account, and internal stakeholder queries on claim status, and escalate unresolved or aged claims to the Team Lead/Manager in a timely manner.

Education: Full-time Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) from an accredited university.

0-2 years of related work experience; exposure to CPG, sales operations, finance, or shared services environments is a plus. Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and the ability to work accurately across multiple tools, systems, and databases. Soft Skills: Strong command of oral and written English, strong attention to detail, and the ability to follow structured processes with minimal supervision. People Management: Not applicable — this is an individual-contributor role with no direct reports.

Familiarity with Trade Planner, SAP, and Customer Trade Management (CTM) systems. Understanding of retail trade concepts (deductions, promotional payments, audits, single funding). Basic data visualization/reporting exposure (Tableau, Power BI, or similar). Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple claims/tasks concurrently. Demonstrates integrity, curiosity, and a continuous-improvement mindset; comfortable working in a dynamic, deadline-driven environment. 
 ELIGIBILITY Applicants must meet minimum age qualifications in the country in which the job is located.