Job Description: Finance Transformation Lead for S/4 Finance Programmme

What is the context of the role?

Our client, a leading banking institution based in Ireland with significant operations in the UK, is undergoing a comprehensive finance transformation programme. This initiative aims to modernize and streamline financial processes, enhance regulatory compliance, and improve overall operational efficiency. The programme is already in progress, and we are seeking a highly skilled Finance Transformation Lead to join the team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in accounting management or financial control and extensive experience with SAP S/4 ERP. This role is critical in ensuring a smooth transition from legacy systems to the new SAP environment, bridging the gap between business requirements and technical solutions.

The business is moving from a very old and highly customised SAP instance, so the move to S/4 Hana will be a significant change, and this person will be instrumental in helping manage and encourage this change.

What will I be doing?

As the Finance Transformation Lead, you will play a pivotal role in the successful execution of the finance transformation programme. Your responsibilities will include:

• Transformation Planning and Execution: Develop and manage detailed transformation plans, ensuring all activities are meticulously coordinated and executed. This includes data migration, system integration, and user acceptance testing.
• Stakeholder Management: Act as the primary liaison between business stakeholders, integrators, and technical teams. Facilitate clear communication and understanding of business requirements and technical solutions.
• Risk Management: Identify potential risks and issues related to the transformation process. Develop mitigation strategies and contingency plans to address these risks.
• Training and Support: Provide training and support to end-users to ensure they are fully prepared for the transition to the new SAP system. Address any concerns or issues that arise during the transformation process.
• Continuous Improvement: Monitor the effectiveness of the transformation process and identify opportunities for improvement. Implement best practices and lessons learned to enhance future transformation activities.
• Documentation: Maintain comprehensive documentation of all transformation activities, including plans, schedules, risk assessments, and post-transformation reviews.

What skills and background will I require?

To be successful in this role, you will need the following skills and background:

• Accounting Background: A strong foundation in accounting, with a deep understanding of financial processes and regulatory requirements in the banking sector. Experience as an Accounting Manager or Financial Controller is highly desirable. ACCA, ACA, CPA, CIMA qualifications.
• SAP Expertise: Extensive experience with SAP, particularly SAP S/4 ERP. Knowledge of other SAP modules relevant to finance transformation is a plus. Experience with consolidation tools, ideally SAP Group Reporting, would be a major plus.
• Project Management: Proven experience in managing complex projects, with a focus on transformation planning and execution. PMP or PRINCE2 certification is desirable.
• Communication Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts into business-friendly language and vice versa.
• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify and address potential issues proactively.
• Stakeholder Management: Experience in managing diverse stakeholders, including business leaders, technical teams, and external vendors.
• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and adapt to changing priorities and requirements.

Why should I take this role?

Joining this finance transformation programme as an SAP Cutover Manager offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on a leading banking institution. Here are some reasons why you should consider this role:

• Career Growth: This role provides a platform for professional growth and development. You will gain valuable experience in managing large-scale transformation projects and working with cutting-edge SAP technology.
• Impactful Work: You will play a crucial role in transforming the financial operations of a major banking institution, contributing to its long-term success and stability.
• Collaborative Environment: Work alongside a team of dedicated professionals who are passionate about driving change and delivering excellence.
• Competitive Compensation: Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, reflecting the importance of this role within the organization.
• Innovation and Learning: Be part of an innovative programme that embraces new technologies and methodologies. You will have the opportunity to learn and grow in a supportive environment.
• Work-Life Balance: Our client values work-life balance and offers flexible working arrangements to support your personal and professional needs.

How do I apply?

For more information on this opportunity, please do not hesitate to get in touch with Geoff Coleman from SystemsAccountants via email: Geoff@systemsaccountants.com.

Who we are?

SystemsAccountants is a leading global Financial Systems, Analytics, and Transformation recruitment company. We provide permanent & contractor recruitment solutions to enable clients to implement, support, develop, run & optimise, ERP, ERP and Analytics systems. We source and screen finance systems professionals on a global basis. Unlike typical search & selection firms, our consultants have an international reach, which ensures that our clients and candidates receive market insight along with a tailored service.