This disclosure relates to supported multi-metallic catalysts for use in the hydrotreating of hydrocarbon feeds, as well as a method for preparing such catalysts. The catalysts are prepared from a catalyst precursor comprised of at least one Group VIB metal, at least one Group VIII metal and an organic acid. The catalyst precursor is thermally treated to partially decompose the organic acid, then sulfided. The catalysts have a high carbon-as-carboxyl to total carbon ratio (Ccarboxy/Ctotal) as a result of a unique post-metal calcination method employed during the manufacture of the catalyst.