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.