The present invention is directed to processes for preparing supported metal catalysts comprising one or more catalytically active metals applied to a porous catalyst support and to processes that use such catalysts. The process requires the formation of an organic complex during the manufacture of the catalyst which after its formation is either partially or fully decomposed before reduction if the metal to form the catalyst. The catalysts have high levels of metal dispersion and uniform distribution of catalytically active metals on the support. The catalysts obtained form the processes are particularly effective in catalysing Fischer-Tropsch reactions and as adsorbants for the removal or organosulfur compounds from hydrocarbons.