Head of Sourcing & Partnerships (China - based)
GTE · Nieuwegein, Utrecht, Netherlands
- Hybrid
- Full-time
- $150,000 / year
- Nieuwegein, Utrecht, Netherlands
Job highlights
- Lead China sourcing and build supplier network.
- Negotiate high-value supplier and brand partnerships.
- Manage 20+ active supplier partners.
- Develop sourcing strategy and market intelligence.
- Establish or support China-based fulfillment operations.
About the role
About GTE
GTE is a fast-growing global eCommerce company where smart ideas turn into real impact. We build and scale online brands across international markets, and we empower our team members to take ownership, grow quickly, and shape the future of our business alongside us.Role Overview
We are seeking a highly experienced Head of Sourcing & Partnerships to lead and scale our supplier ecosystem in China. This is a senior, strategic role focused on building direct relationships with top-tier Chinese manufacturers and brands, unlocking access to high-quality products, and strengthening our cross-border supply chain into the EU market. You will operate as a key driver of growth—owning supplier strategy, negotiating high-impact deals, and building a sourcing engine capable of supporting rapid eCommerce expansion. This role is ideal for someone with a strong executive background in China’s supply chain ecosystem (e.g., experience with companies like Shein or Temu), and a well-established network of factories, brands, and logistics partners.What You’ll Own & Build
In this role, you’ll be trusted with real responsibility from day one. Your success will be measured based on the following:- Build & Own Supplier Network: Establish and manage relationships with Chinese factories and established brands (not trading companies).
- Unlock access to a large catalog of high-quality, scalable products (100,000+ SKUs).
- Partnerships & Deal-Making: Lead negotiations on pricing, MOQs, payment terms, exclusivity, and strategic partnerships.
- Close high-value supplier and brand partnerships for cross-border distribution.
- Operational Excellence: Build and manage a supplier base of 20+ active partners.
- Improve supplier performance, reduce lead times, and ensure consistent product quality.
- Market Intelligence & Sourcing Strategy: Leverage platforms like Taobao, Tmall, and local networks to identify trends and sourcing opportunities.
- Continuously benchmark suppliers and identify new partnership opportunities.
- Infrastructure Development: Support or establish warehouse/fulfillment operations in China where needed.
- Build processes, systems, and team structures to support long-term scale.
What We’re Looking For
We’re excited to work with someone who:- Has minimum 5+ years of experience in China-based sourcing, supply chain, or partnerships.
- Proven track record in closing partnerships with Chinese factories or brands.
- Strong experience in cross-border logistics (China → EU).
- Hands-on experience managing 20+ suppliers simultaneously.
- Demonstrated success in negotiation and deal-making.
- Experience setting up or managing China-based warehousing or fulfillment.
- Deep familiarity with Chinese domestic eCommerce platforms (Taobao, Tmall, etc.).
- Existing network of Chinese suppliers, brands, and manufacturers.
- Experience in a results-driven role with ownership over KPIs or revenue.
Ready to Grow With Us?
If you’re looking for a role where your work matters, your growth is supported, and your impact is visible—we’d love to hear from you.Key skills/competency
- Sourcing Strategy
- Supplier Relationship Management
- Partnership Development
- Cross-border Logistics
- Negotiation
- E-commerce Operations
- Supply Chain Management
- Market Intelligence
- Contract Manufacturing
- China Market Expertise
Skills & topics
- Head of Sourcing
- Partnerships Manager
- China Sourcing
- Supply Chain
- E-commerce
- Brand Partnerships
- Logistics
- Negotiation
- Supplier Management
- China
How to get hired
- Tailor your resume: Highlight experience in China sourcing, supply chain, and partnerships, emphasizing your network and negotiation skills.
- Showcase your network: Quantify your experience managing suppliers and closing deals with Chinese factories and brands.
- Demonstrate cross-border expertise: Detail your experience with China-to-EU logistics and e-commerce platforms like Taobao and Tmall.
- Prepare for negotiation discussions: Be ready to discuss your approach to pricing, MOQs, and strategic partnership terms.
- Express strategic vision: Articulate how you would build and scale a supplier ecosystem for rapid growth.
Technical preparation
Study China's supply chain dynamics.,Analyze top Chinese eCommerce platforms.,Practice negotiation frameworks.,Map key manufacturer networks.
Behavioral questions
Describe a challenging supplier negotiation.,How do you build trust with partners?,Share an experience scaling operations.,How do you identify market trends?
Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary focus of the Head of Sourcing & Partnerships role at GTE in China?
- The primary focus is to build and scale GTE's supplier ecosystem in China by establishing direct relationships with manufacturers and brands, optimizing the cross-border supply chain to the EU market, and driving growth through strategic sourcing and partnerships.
- What kind of experience is essential for this Head of Sourcing & Partnerships position?
- Essential experience includes a minimum of 5 years in China-based sourcing, supply chain, or partnerships, a proven track record of closing deals with Chinese factories/brands, strong cross-border logistics (China-EU) knowledge, and familiarity with Chinese e-commerce platforms.
- Does GTE require experience with specific Chinese e-commerce platforms for this role?
- Yes, deep familiarity with Chinese domestic eCommerce platforms such as Taobao and Tmall is a key requirement for identifying trends and sourcing opportunities.
- What is the expected scale of supplier management for the Head of Sourcing & Partnerships?
- The role requires hands-on experience managing 20+ suppliers simultaneously and building a supplier base of 20+ active partners.
- Is this a remote, hybrid, or on-site position for the Head of Sourcing & Partnerships in China?
- While the role is based in China, the description implies a significant degree of autonomy and strategic responsibility, suggesting a flexible or remote-friendly approach within China. However, it may require on-site presence for factory visits and relationship building. Further clarification from the hiring manager is recommended.
- What does GTE mean by 'independent contractor engagement' for this role?
- This means the position is structured as a full-time independent contractor role, which typically involves different employment terms, benefits, and tax implications compared to a traditional employee position. It emphasizes autonomy and results-driven performance.
- What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) for the Head of Sourcing & Partnerships at GTE?
- Key performance indicators would likely revolve around the number and quality of established supplier relationships, the volume and value of closed partnerships, improvements in supplier performance (lead times, quality), and contribution to overall business growth and revenue.