Category Manager

Battery Storage Initiatives Sourcing and Contracting Role

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

• 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 workstreams.
• 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.

Top skills and qualifications 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

Non-technical skills necessary:

• 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 experience 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.

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

Red flags on a resume:

• 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