Category Manager

Explain what the scope of the work/project is? Project Overview, deliverables (what is this person responsible for).

This role supports sourcing and contracting efforts for battery storage initiatives. The primary focus is split into two key areas:

1. Contracting & Negotiation:
Managing and negotiating a variety of agreements, including master service agreements and project-specific contracts. This individual will help drive negotiations and ensure successful execution across multiple work streams.

2. Strategic Sourcing Events:
Leading and supporting RFPs, RFIs, and RFQs expected later this year and into next. This includes owning the full lifecycle of sourcing events—from planning and execution through evaluation and contract award.

Candidates should have strong familiarity with structured sourcing methodologies (e.g., seven-step sourcing process) and be comfortable owning sourcing events end-to-end.

What are the top 3-5 skills and qualifications (technology/application/software, etc.) required?

• Strong experience in contract negotiation and contract management
• Hands-on experience leading RFPs, RFIs, and RFQs end-to-end
• Familiarity with structured sourcing processes (e.g., seven-step sourcing)
• Category management experience, including understanding pricing, lead times, and commercial terms
• Procurement experience across both equipment and services

2. What non-technical skills are necessary (i.e., such as communication, problem solving, team player)?

• Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels (including leadership)
• Self-starter with a proactive, curious mindset
• Excellent attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and stay organized

Ideal candidate background and how many years required?

Candidates should have meaningful experience in procurement, sourcing, or category management. Experience in the utility or energy sector is strongly preferred, especially related to battery storage or similar technologies. However, candidates from other industries with strong negotiation and sourcing experience will also be considered.

4. Are there any specific companies you like to see on a candidate's resume?

• Utilities (e.g., Xcel Energy or similar investor-owned utilities)
• Energy sector organizations
• OEMs, particularly those involved in power equipment or battery/storage technologies
• Global OEM experience is a strong plus, especially given exposure to tariffs, geopolitical considerations, and supply chain complexities.

5. Are there any certifications that the candidate must possess?

A bachelor's degree is required. No specific certifications are required.

6. Are there any preferred or "nice to have" skills?

• Experience in energy storage or battery-related procurement
• Understanding of geopolitical and supply chain considerations (tariffs, foreign ownership, etc.)
• Experience working with complex supplier agreements and contract structures

7. Can you think of any "red flags" on a resume? (Large gaps, previous companies, drastic career changes, job hopping)

• Candidates with only tactical procurement experience (e.g., purchase order processing, invoicing, inventory tracking) without strategic sourcing exposure
• Lack of experience with RFP/RFI/RFQ processes
• Inability to explain contract structures or negotiation strategies

8. Are there any pre-screening questions, such as candidate's previous experience, education, etc., that you would like suppliers to ask of candidates upon submission?

• Can you walk through your experience leading an RFP, RFI, or RFQ from start to finish?
• How do you approach contract negotiation, and what key terms do you focus on?
• What is your understanding of different contract types (e.g., service agreements, material agreements, guarantees)?
• Can you describe your experience with category management and how you evaluate suppliers?