Head of Quality, Technical, Compliance and Sourcing
We are seeking a Head of Quality, Technical, Compliance and Sourcing to join John Lewis & Partners as a key senior leadership leader. This newly created role oversees end‑to‑end own‑brand product delivery, uniting sourcing and quality & technical functions under a single strategic leader to support commercial ambitions, margin growth, and brand integrity.
* Salary – £121,000.00 to £181,000.00
* Contract type – Permanent
* Working pattern – Hybrid; mix of office (London Head Office – Pimlico) and home based to suit personal needs and business balance
* Location – London Head Office, Pimlico with travel to sourcing offices in India and Hong Kong
* Interview – In‑person interview on Thursday, 13th November at London Head Office
Key Responsibilities
* Lead UK Sourcing, Quality & Technical teams, ensuring collaborative delivery across the own‑brand portfolio.
* Drive sourcing strategy and supplier consolidation, securing favourable deals while expanding supply options.
* Maintain rigorous product quality oversight from factory to consumer, ensuring all suppliers meet high standards.
* Collaborate with regional offices in India, Hong Kong and UK manufacturing to hold supplies and factories accountable for product delivery and quality.
* Ensure sustainable and ethical sourcing, working with the Head of Corporate Responsibility to meet responsible practices.
* Stay attuned to customer preferences, market trends and new technologies, providing insights and leveraging networks.
Essential Skills & Experience
* Senior Leadership Experience – Proven senior leadership in sourcing, quality and technical management within fashion & home.
* Strategic & Commercial Acumen – Ability to create and deliver sourcing and product assurance plans aligned with commercial goals, driving profit through differentiated products.
* Sourcing & Supply Chain Expertise – Deep knowledge of global sourcing models, nearshore/offshore dynamics, vendor optimisation and large partner groups.
* Quality & Technical Knowledge – Sound understanding of product quality, safety, compliance and sustainability standards.
* Cross‑Functional Collaboration – Strong influence across matrix functions, especially Commercial and Design teams, with a proven track record of building internal and external networks.
* Team Leadership – Inspirational leadership to unite previously separate functions, empowering teams to resolve challenges and make decisions.
* Experience in a comparable, large‑scale retail company with both physical and online channels is highly beneficial.
Our Partnership offers flexible work arrangements, including compressed hours, job sharing or shorter hour contracts where possible. If you require a reasonable adjustment for a disability, please notify us during the application process.
All positions are subject to pre‑employment vetting, including DBS checks where required. The Partnership encourages early application due to potential high volume and early closure of vacancies.
#J-18808-Ljbffr