Sourcing Controller Harrow (Hybrid) |
£70,000 + bonuses + benefits 35 hours per week
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Sourcing Controller to take ownership of sourcing strategy, supplier performance, and cost optimisation across key own-label categories. This senior role offers influence, autonomy, and the chance to shape a national brand portfolio.
The Role You’ll lead the sourcing strategy for your assigned categories, ensuring market-competitive buying, strong supplier relationships, and sustainable cost structures. You will also manage and develop a small team, driving continuous improvement and delivering commercial results.
What You’ll Bring - Degree educated.
- Minimum 5 years’ buying experience in a retail or wholesale environment.
- Strong background in own-label category management and cost-of-goods control.
- Hands-on experience with supply chain setups, production footprints, MLOR, date coding, and waste reduction.
- Comfortable operating within a matrix structure.
- Demonstrable experience delivering successful tenders.
- Advanced Excel skills and confident use of PowerPoint.
- Excellent negotiation, analytical, and influencing capabilities.
- Ability to lead multiple projects, priorities, and stakeholders simultaneously.
- Professional presence and confidence when engaging with suppliers and senior stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities - Develop and deliver the sourcing strategy across designated categories.
- Drive COGS reduction plans and ensure target RRPs and margins are achieved.
- Lead negotiations on cost price changes, supplier agreements, and commercial terms.
- Ensure supplier service levels reach a minimum of 97% and improve availability.
- Build and execute supplier engagement plans, identifying new sourcing opportunities.
- Work collaboratively with internal category, supply chain, and commercial teams.
- Run tenders that deliver financial, operational, and strategic benefits.
- Provide strong leadership — coaching, developing, and guiding your team.
- Maintain a sustainable, robust supply base supported by clear SWOT analysis and action planning.
- Manage P&L for core buying areas, including income budgets and secondary income streams.
What’s on Offer A senior sourcing role with real scope to shape category performance, lead a high-performing team, and drive strategic improvements — all within a collaborative, forward-thinking environment.
