Strategic Category Management Leader — Hybrid

Xcel Energy; Minnesota; Hybrid; USD 112,000 - 159,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual Incentive Program

Medical/Pharmacy Plan

Dental

Vision

Life Insurance

401(k) plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Xcel Energy seeks a Principal Category Manager to lead enterprise-wide sourcing categories, drive complex events, and negotiate key supplier contracts. You will mentor teams, conduct spend analyses, and guide risk management with cross-functional partners.

The role requires deep expertise in category management, supplier relationships, and contract management, plus strong analytical and negotiation skills. This hybrid role combines on-site collaboration with flexible work options.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain management, business, or related field.
• Eight years of supply chain and industry experience including category management and supplier relationship management.
• Five years leading complex contract negotiations and project management.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite; experience with purchasing and sourcing systems.
• Up to 20% travel; driving license required.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and implementation of enterprise-wide category strategies and spend analyses.
• Oversee supplier relationship management and KPI tracking for critical vendors.
• Negotiate contracts and changes to support category strategies and business needs.
• Develop risk management approaches with Legal and Security; ensure contract compliance.
• Create and manage project plans to implement category strategies and supplier improvements.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to the supply chain team.

Skills

Category management

Supplier relationships

Sourcing

Contract management

Negotiation

Project management

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain management, business, or related field

MBA

Certified Professional in Supply Chain Management (CPSM)

Tools

Purchasing systems

Sourcing systems

Job description

Xcel Energy seeks a Principal Category Manager to lead enterprise-wide sourcing categories, drive complex events, and negotiate key supplier contracts. You will mentor teams, conduct spend analyses, and guide risk management with cross-functional partners.

The role requires deep expertise in category management, supplier relationships, and contract management, plus strong analytical and negotiation skills. This hybrid role combines on-site collaboration with flexible work options.