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Job Overview
We’re looking for an ambitious and globally experienced Director of Sourcing (OEM) to lead a strategic growth initiative for AO. This role will shape the future of our Own Brand product range (Major Domestic Appliances) by building a world‑class sourcing capability from the ground up. You’ll be central to creating and delivering a sourcing strategy that drives innovation, quality and value across product ranges.
Success in this role requires someone who understands how to navigate Far East manufacturers, build strong commercial relationships, and influence how suppliers think, operate, and develop products. This is a role for someone who can think strategically, lead negotiations, roll up sleeves, and drive delivery.
What You Can Expect To Be Doing
* Lead the development and execution of a multi-category OEM sourcing strategy that delivers a competitive advantage.
* Build strong, collaborative relationships with Far East manufacturers, understanding cultural nuances, negotiation dynamics, and driving supplier performance.
* Own and lead complex commercial negotiations, ensuring product quality that meets existing brand guidelines.
* Drive end‑to‑end OEM product development, working directly with manufacturers on specification, quality, compliance, and production.
* Implement robust quality assurance and regulatory frameworks, ensuring products comply with all relevant standards, including REACH and RoHS.
* Develop a clear range architecture aligned to AO’s product and brand strategy.
* Establish governance structures and risk‑management approaches that support a resilient global sourcing operation, including supply‑chain regulations and ESG considerations.
* Build, lead, and develop a high‑performing sourcing team.
* Set the logistics and freight strategy, selecting and negotiating with international forwarding partners to ensure cost efficiency, resilience, and scalability.
* Work cross‑functionally with the existing Brand, Commercial, Supply and logistics teams to deliver product launches that exceed customer expectations.
A Few Things About You
* Proven track record in OEM/MDA sourcing, working directly with manufacturers across China and Southeast Asia, with a deep understanding of how Far East sourcing markets operate.
* Strong background in OEM electrical product development, including hands‑on involvement with manufacturing partners.
* Commercially astute, with advanced negotiation skills and ability to manage complex supplier relationships.
* Ability to operate at pace, comfortable with ambiguity, thrive on change, and balance strategic thinking with hands‑on delivery.
* Strong technical understanding of global compliance and product assurance requirements.
* Experience owning or influencing a sourcing P&L, with a track record of improving cost, quality, and margin.
* A collaborative leadership style with the ability to influence and work across multiple functions.
* A self‑starter, with ambition, curiosity, and the drive to build something significant.
About Us
When it comes to appliances and electricals, we’ve got the lot. Washing machines? Yep. TVs? Check. Laptops? Absolutely. Everything except doorbells (just kidding, we’ve got those too). We’re known for helping our customers brilliantly - and it’s no different for AOers. We care about more than what’s on your CV, because together we can do extraordinary things.
Benefits
* Holidays – 25 days, plus bank holidays (increasing to 27 days after 2 years with us!)
* Flexible benefits – including 9% employer pension contribution, car allowance and private healthcare
* Opportunity to participate in the AO incentive programme
* Be a VIP at the AO Arena – we have loads of opportunities to win free tickets and pre‑sale access!
* Health & wellbeing – discounted gym membership, an onsite spa and our Help @ Hand scheme giving you access to virtual GP’s, mental health support and much more.
* Discounts – exclusive discounts across our product range.
* Family leave – enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave.
* Making a difference – 2 fully paid days a year to donate your time to any charity of your choice.
* On‑site perks – start your day with free on‑site parking, complimentary breakfast and a coffee at our subsidised Starbucks!
To see all our benefits and perks, visit our AO Benefits page.
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