Key Responsibilities

 

Process & Strategic Leadership

Develop and execute comprehensive sourcing of materials and category management strategies. Manage the complete product portfolio with cost transparency and optimization. Lead cost analysis and implement methods to reduce procurement, production, and manufacturing costs without compromising quality. Build and execute negotiation strategies to secure competitive deals and long-term vendor partnerships. Continuously optimize sourcing procedures for efficiency and performance improvement. Collaborate cross-functionally with design, merchandising, and production teams to ensure seamless execution. Monitor and adapt to supplier dynamics and global sourcing trends. Conduct detailed cost, scenario, and risk analyses, including benchmarking and forecasting. Establish supply chain risk-mitigation strategies and business continuity plans. Identify, onboard, and nurture trustworthy, compliant, and innovative vendors and mills. Ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of raw materials and finished goods. Partner with design teams to introduce new fabrics, technologies, and innovations. Deliver on annual sourcing development goals, including onboarding new vendors/mills across key sourcing regions (e.g., Banaras, South India, new dyeing/printing units).

People & Team Leadership

Build and lead a high-performing sourcing team aligned with delivery, quality, and cost-efficiency targets. Define team roles, allocate responsibilities, and monitor performance. Foster a culture of motivation, transparency, and retention. Oversee recruitment, performance management, and goal setting within approved budgets. Act as a mentor and coach, developing the next generation of sourcing leaders.

Financial Ownership

Own and manage sourcing budgets and all cost-saving initiatives. Approve sourcing expenditures within financial parameters. Track and report cost-saving outcomes and budget adherence.

 

Key Competencies

 

Behavioural

Eye for Detail Great Planning and High Execution Capability Collaboration with Cross-Functional Teams High Focus on Quality Ownership Analytical Thinking & Problem-Solving Productivity Planning & Organizational Skills Relationship Building Leadership & Decision-Making Strategic Mindset

 

Technical

Deep technical understanding of fabrics, mills & sourcing processes Commercial Acumen & Negotiation Skills Advanced Data Analytics & Procurement Costing Proficiency in Excel, Data Dashboards & SAP

 

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

100% compliance with sourcing and delivery calendars On-time delivery of all committed goods Achieving cost savings vs. budget Quality and process compliance across all vendors Annual onboarding of new vendors and mills Strong vendor performance (timeliness, compliance, quality) Implementation of innovations in fabrics, processes, and sourcing techniques

 

Direct Team: Sourcing, Production, Quality, Manufacturing

 

Stakeholder Management

Internal: Design, Merchandising, Finance, Senior Leadership External: Vendors, Mills, Suppliers, Strategic Partners

 

Reporting to: Managing Director

 

Ideal Candidate Profile

Bachelor’s degree in Textile Engineering or a related technical field; MBA preferred 20+ years of experience in apparel/fashion sourcing with deep technical expertise in fabric Proven ability to drive cost efficiencies and supplier-led innovation Strong leadership, project management, and cross-functional collaboration skills Excellent negotiation and vendor management expertise Analytical, commercially astute, with a strong eye for detail and ownership Proven ability to influence, lead, and deliver results in a fast-paced environment