Head of Cost Control

Head of Cost Control

Wickes is more than just the nation’s favourite DIY store. We’re part of the Travis Perkins Group, one of the UK’s top employers. That’s why the first thing you’ll notice at Wickes is the way everyone pulls together.  It’s a place where we’ll ask for your ideas, listen to your opinions and value the contributions you make.  Chances are you’ve never experienced anything quite like our culture.  All our colleagues come from different backgrounds, but what we all have in common is a determination to succeed and a passion for being the best we can be. If that sounds like you, we’ll make you feel right at home.

The Role

We are looking for a Senior Leader with a background in Operations or Finance to join us as Head Of Cost Control in our Watford based Head Office, the key responsibility of this role is to be responsible for maximising profit in the Wickes business by driving down costs. Developing a strategy and proactively engaging both Upstream (commercial) and downstream (stores) to deliver on the plan and key financial targets.

You will be an inspiring and engaging leader with a proven track record of leading and developing a team.

Key responsibilities;

• Accountable for setting the agenda for cost reduction in store operations. Developing cost saving targets and initiatives to deliver these targets. Creating ways of working within retail & support centre to drive cost efficiency.
• Responsible for ensuring the senior retail team are appropriately briefed and engaged with all plans & initiatives and that their feedback helps shape the plans
• Creating a strategy to reduce Shrinkage and leakage both through upstream and downstream management. Gathering input, support and engagement from Central functions, the field teams and senior leaders.
• Manage Operational Purchasing team to deliver continuous savings whilst also delivering fit for purpose goods and services for the stores. Develop a programme to review all spend and suppliers. 
• Set challenging targets across every team and report on these targets regularly at senior and wider business levels. Keeping cost controls at the front of mind across the business.