Category Manager (Supply Chain) (Denver)

Reports to: Manager, Supply ChainRole: This position is responsible for managing the full supply chain lifecycle, leading strategic sourcing initiatives, and optimizing supplier performance across a diverse portfolio of oil and gas spend categories, including drilling, completions, production, facilities, construction, and infrastructure.The Category Manager serves as a strategic partner to Operations and cross-functional stakeholders, aligning sourcing strategies with business objectives to deliver cost efficiency, supply assurance, and service excellence. This position requires a balance of strategic thinking and hands-on execution in a dynamic, operations-driven environment.The ideal candidate brings hands-on experience with best-in-class supply chain operations, strong analytical and commercial acumen, and a collaborative, relationship-driven approach with the ability to influence both internal stakeholders and external suppliers.Responsibilities:Category Strategy & Sourcing Leadership:Develop and execute category strategies aligned with business objectives, market conditions, and operational requirementsLead end-to-end sourcing events (RFIs, RFQs, RFPs), including bid development, evaluation, negotiation, and award recommendationsIdentify and drive cost savings, cost avoidance, and value creation opportunities across assigned categoriesMonitor market trends, supplier capabilities, and pricing dynamics to inform sourcing decisionsCommercial Execution & Contract Management:Manage the full contract lifecycle including MSAs, service agreements, pricing structures, and amendmentsEnsure contract compliance and pricing adherence to minimize value leakageSupport purchase order processes and ensure alignment with negotiated termsSupplier & Performance Management:Develop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to improve performance, service quality, and commercial outcomesEstablish and track supplier performance metrics (KPIs) including cost, safety, quality, and deliveryLead supplier performance reviews and drive continuous improvement initiativesSupport supplier onboarding, prequalification, and approved vendor list managementStakeholder Partnership:Act as a trusted advisor to Operations teams to align sourcing strategies with business needsTranslate operational requirements into commercial strategies and sourcing plansEnsure clear communication and alignment throughout the sourcing and execution lifecycleAnalytics & Continuous Improvement:Conduct spend analysis, should-cost modeling, and data-driven insights to support decision-makingTrack and report savings, cost avoidance, and sourcing performance metricsSupport development and utilization of spend intelligence and contract management toolsIdentify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and sourcing velocityEducation & Experience:Bachelor's degree in a related degree preferred8+ years of relevant experienceExperience managing categories such as Drilling, Completions, Production, or Facilities strongly preferredDemonstrated experience in strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, and supplier managementSkills:Strong commercial and financial acumen with advanced analytical capabilitiesProven ability to lead negotiations and manage complex sourcing initiativesAbility to manage multiple priorities and deliver results in a fast-paced environmentExcellent communication and stakeholder management skills across all levels of the organizationHigh level of integrity, accountability, and professionalismSelf-starter with a proactive, solution-oriented mindset and ability to operate with ambiguityStrong attention to detail with the ability to translate data into actionable insightsAdvanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and data analysis toolsExperience with ERP, procurement, or contract management systems preferredWhy Join Anschutz Exploration?At Anschutz Exploration, we're driven by a shared commitment to company success over individual wins. We aim high, simplify where it counts, and focus on what matters — all while embracing transparency and continuous learning. If you're someone who thrives in a collaborative, improvement-focused environment, we'd like to hear from you.Benefits and Anticipated CompensationThis role is eligible for both short- and long-term incentive opportunities. AEC offers a benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, employer paid life and disability insurance coverage, a 401(k) plan with company match, and wellness support.The starting rate for this position is expected to be between $150,000 to $175,000, based on experience, qualifications, and internal pay alignment. Final compensation may vary from this range depending on a variety of factors, including a candidate's education, skills, prior experience, and evolving market conditions. This range represents Anschutz Exploration's good-faith estimate of the pay for this role at the time of posting.Application DeadlineWe anticipate starting to review applications after May 29, 2026 but applications will be accepted until finalists are identified.Anschutz Exploration Corporation (AEC) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws prohibiting discrimination in employment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.