Sourcing Controller

Antal International Network; Harrow; Hybrid; Confidential; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking an experienced Sourcing Controller in Harrow (Hybrid) to oversee sourcing strategy and supplier performance. The role demands a professional with a degree and at least 5 years in retail or wholesale buying, particularly in own-label category management. Responsibilities include driving cost reductions, leading negotiations, and managing a team. This senior position offers the chance to shape a key national brand portfolio in a collaborative and forward-thinking environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years’ buying experience in a retail or wholesale environment.
• Strong background in own‑label category management and cost‑of‑goods control.
• Professional presence and confidence when engaging with suppliers and senior stakeholders.

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 and supplier agreements.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Advanced Excel

Project management

Supplier relationship management

Education

Degree educated

Tools

PowerPoint

Job description

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.