Xcel Energy

Principal Category Manager - IT Services

Xcel Energy$112K — $159K *
Enterprise Technology
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, business, or related field; equivalent experience considered.
  • MBA and Certified Professional in Supply Chain Management (CPSM) preferred.
  • 8 years of supply chain experience, focusing on category management and sourcing.
  • 5 years of direct experience leading complex negotiations and project management.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and sourcing systems.
  • Ability to travel up to 20% for meetings; driver's license required.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and implement enterprise category strategies; perform cost analysis to maximize value capture.
  • Manage relationships with tier I suppliers focusing on cost, quality, and improvement initiatives.
  • Negotiate contracts aligned with category strategies and ensure compliance with terms.
  • Collaborate on risk management strategies involving legal and contract elements.
  • Create and manage project plans for category strategy implementation.
  • Mentor team members and provide expert guidance on sourcing strategies.

Benefits

  • Annual Incentive Program
  • Comprehensive medical and pharmacy plan
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Generous paid time off (PTO) and holidays
  • 401(k) plan with pension option
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Full Job Description
Position Summary

Provide sourcing leadership and direction for complex, critical sourcing categories with the greatest impact. Lead cross functional teams to drive successful project and category outcomes/results. Develop and effectively execute sourcing strategy. Collaborate with the business to plan and implement complex competitive sourcing events and other activities to advance category strategies. Develop effective negotiation strategies and negotiate commercial terms with critical suppliers to achieve objectives. Manage risk mitigation efforts and oversee on-going supplier performance. Ensure compliance with supplier safety, risk assessments, and other supplier programs. Serve as a technical expert for the Category Management organization. This position is a lead position responsible for providing mentorship for 4 people and a spend of ~$150M.

Our current hybrid work policy requires 3 days a week in office (T, Wed, Thurs).

Essential Responsibilities
  • Lead the development and implementation of critical enterprise-wide category strategies. Perform spend and cost analysis (e.g. total cost of ownership and should cost models) and develop category strategies to achieve maximum value capture. Complete supplier research and risk profiles. Monitor industry information, external factors, and trends to ensure category strategy is leading current best practices. Develop and execute complex sourcing event strategies and guide others on the team. In conjunction with logistics personnel implement optimal inventory strategies.
  • Lead tier I supplier relationship management efforts for multiple and the most critical suppliers focusing on improving total cost of ownership quality delivery and continuous improvement. Maintain awareness of supplier innovations and incorporate them into sourcing strategy. Establish KPIs and metrics. Monitor document and evaluate supplier performance. Lead the resolution of disputes with critical suppliers.
  • Develop strategy and lead negotiations to establish contracts that support category strategies while meeting business requirements. Review analyze verify and negotiate contract changes or additional work orders. Monitor compliance across buying channel supplier and contract purchasing execution. Manage contractor claims to resolution. Ensure suppliers comply with contract terms and meet all commitments. Develop and communicate contract summary and implementation plans.
  • Develop risk management strategies in conjunction with Legal and Security apply understanding of underlying principles of contract law. In collaboration with business area management manage and define the risk elements of the contract. Limit Xcel Energy risk by ensuring all required documents and notices have been obtained and are satisfactory.
  • Create and manage project plans to implement category strategies. Manage supply chain business and supplier continuous improvement efforts.
  • Provide expert guidance oversight and collaboration with the supply chain team to build category and sourcing strategies. Generate and implement new ideas/ processes. Mentor and provide work oversight.


Minimum Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, business, or related technical/analytical field. Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
  • MBA as well as Certified Professional in Supply Chain Management (CPSM) or other supply chain certification strongly preferred.
  • A combination of eight years of supply chain and industry experience, including category management, supplier relationship management, sourcing, and contract management expertise.
  • A combination of five years of experience directly leading complex contact negotiations and project management.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and significant experience with purchasing and sourcing systems is required.
  • Frequently required to attend meetings in various locations, up to 20% travel; driver's license required.


Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience negotiating agreements with professional service providers like IBM, Accenture, TCS and InfoSys.
  • Experience negotiating and managing agreements for Customer Information Systems, application managed services, and Data Modernization (AI services).


Non-Bargaining

The anticipated starting base pay for this position is: $112,200.00 to $159,400.00 per year

This position is eligible for the following benefits: Annual Incentive Program, Medical/Pharmacy Plan, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Dependent Care Reimbursement Account, Health Care Reimbursement Account, Health Savings Account (HSA) (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Limited-Purpose FSA (if enrolled in eligible health plan and HSA), Transportation Reimbursement Account, Short-term disability (STD), Long-term disability (LTD), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Fitness Center Reimbursement (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Tuition reimbursement, Transit programs, Employee recognition program, Pension, 401(k) plan, Paid time off (PTO), Holidays, Volunteer Paid Time Off (VPTO), Parental Leave

Benefit plans are subject to change and Xcel Energy has the right to end, suspend, or amend any of its plans, at any time, in whole or in part.

In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information including but not limited to dates of school attendance and graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

Deadline to Apply: 07/09/26

About Xcel Energy

Xcel Energy Careers

Join the dynamic team at Xcel Energy, where innovation meets expertise in the pursuit of sustainable energy solutions. As a leading energy company, Xcel Energy offers unparalleled job opportunities that empower professionals to advance their careers while contributing to environmental stewardship.

Work You’ll Do

At Xcel Energy, you’ll collaborate with skilled professionals dedicated to pioneering advancements in the energy sector. Our team is at the forefront of developing sustainable energy technologies that revolutionize how people consume energy. By joining us, you will be part of a culture that values diversity, leadership, and professional growth.

Innovate and Lead

Step into a role where your skills will directly enhance our capabilities in delivering reliable and sustainable energy. Xcel Energy is a hub for innovation, where your ideas can lead to groundbreaking solutions that shape the future of energy. Our leadership is committed to fostering an environment where creativity and strategic thinking are at the core of our operations.

Career Development

Xcel Energy is deeply invested in the professional development of its team members. With a variety of career paths available, from engineering to customer service, your journey with us is filled with endless possibilities. We support your growth with robust training programs, leadership development opportunities, and diversity training that prepare you for success.

Join Our Team

Explore the numerous employment opportunities at Xcel Energy, from entry-level positions to senior roles. We are hiring individuals who are passionate about making a difference and ready to contribute their expertise to our mission of delivering safe, clean, and reliable energy.

Internship Programs

Kickstart your career with an internship at Xcel Energy. Our internships provide hands-on experience in real-world projects that matter. You’ll gain invaluable insights into the energy sector while developing essential skills that will enhance your resume and increase your marketability.

Benefits and Culture

Xcel Energy is not just about work; we care about our employees' well-being. We offer competitive benefits, including health care, retirement plans, and wellness programs, designed to keep you at your best. Our inclusive culture encourages collaboration and offers networking opportunities that foster connections and professional growth.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest at Xcel Energy: - **Search Xcel Energy Jobs**: Find positions that match your skills and interests. We look for driven, curious, and innovative team players. - **Read Careers Blog**: Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. - **Job Alert Emails**: Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at Xcel Energy. Join Xcel Energy today and be part of a team that is dedicated to building a sustainable future. Your career at Xcel Energy is not just a job; it’s an opportunity to excel in an environment that appreciates your contribution and supports your professional growth.
Learn more about Xcel Energy
Size
11,321 employees
Market Cap
$38.6 billion
Industry
Net Income
$1.4 billion
Founded
2000
5 Year Trend
+3.9%
Revenue
$11.5 billion
NASDAQ

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