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Justin Barlow
Category Manager at Xcel Energy
Professional Background
Justin Barlow is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in the procurement and sourcing sectors. His remarkable career spans various roles within prominent organizations, showcasing his expertise in strategic sourcing, procurement management, and business operations. Currently, Justin serves as the Category Manager at Xcel Energy, where he utilizes his analytical skills and strategic insights to effectively manage and optimize supply categories for the organization. Before ascending to his current role, he gained valuable experience as an Associate Sourcing Project Specialist at Xcel Energy, reinforcing his strong foundation in sourcing methodologies and project management.
Prior to his tenure at Xcel Energy, Justin worked in several key capacities, starting with the Bobcat Company, where he held the position of Sourcing Specialist II. Here, he contributed significantly to the supply chain operations and developed his skills in supplier negotiation and cost analysis. His career further blossomed during his time at Gopher Sport, where he initially took on the role of Procurement Specialist, eventually advancing to Strategic Sourcing Coordinator. These roles allowed him to deepen his understanding of the procurement process, from vendor selection to contract negotiation and implementation.
Justin's extensive experience is further accentuated by his significant tenure at Target Corporation. Over the years, he handled a variety of sourcing roles, including that of Senior Sourcing Specialist and Sourcing Specialist within Target Sourcing Services. His work encompassed diverse product areas like consumables, kitchenware, office/school supplies, and more. Justin's tenure at Target was marked by his ability to enhance procurement processes, drive cost efficiencies, and foster relationships with suppliers, thus supporting Target’s well-established reputation for quality and value.
Earlier in his career, Justin gained an initial taste of the sourcing world as an Import Coordinator at Target, where he managed the logistics of imported goods across various product categories. His keen eye for process improvement and effective communication skills set the stage for his advancement within the procurement domain. Justin's journey into the professional world also includes an internship as an Account Executive at JobsinMinneapolis.com, where he honed his business acumen and laid the groundwork for his career in management and sourcing.
Education and Achievements
Justin Barlow holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Management from Gustavus Adolphus College. His education provided him with a solid foundation in business principles, strategic decision-making, and effective management practices, equipping him with the necessary tools to excel in a corporate environment. Throughout his academic journey, Justin developed critical thinking skills and an understanding of operational frameworks, which have proven invaluable in his professional roles.
In addition to his educational background, Justin has also demonstrated a commitment to continuous learning and professional development throughout his career. His various roles at leading organizations have allowed him to acquire a rich skill set that includes vendor management, procurement strategies, negotiation techniques, and supply chain logistics. These competencies, along with his passion for innovation and efficiency, underscore Justin's approach to sourcing and management.
Achievements
Justin has achieved numerous milestones over his diverse career. His ability to effectively manage procurement strategies at Xcel Energy as a Category Manager is a testament to his skills in category management and strategic sourcing. During his time with notable companies such as Target Corporation and Bobcat Company, he has been instrumental in driving initiatives that lead to significant cost savings while enhancing supplier relationships and improving overall procurement processes.
Notable contributions include his work in optimizing sourcing practices to achieve efficient supply chain operations, integrating technology solutions for better data analysis, and contributing to sustainable procurement initiatives. Justin's dedication to excellence and process enhancements is evident in the operational improvements he has championed, benefiting both his teams and the organizations he has worked for.
Justin's blend of education, vast experience, and a strong commitment to professional growth positions him as a respected leader in the sourcing and procurement fields. His strategic mindset and collaborative nature make him a valuable asset to any organization pursuing excellence in supply chain management. Overall, Justin Barlow continues to set impressive standards in the procurement industry and demonstrates a relentless pursuit of success in his professional journey.
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