IT Procurement Digital Transformation Lead

Job Description

Job Summary:

We are seeking an accomplished Senior IT Manager to lead our IT procurement team and spearhead the implementation of SAP Ariba across the organization. In this pivotal role, you will oversee the daily operational support of SAP procurement modules, ensure the successful execution of system configurations, and drive continuous improvements in procurement processes. Your leadership and deep expertise in SAP procurement systems will be essential in delivering a robust and efficient procurement function that aligns with our strategic objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Team Leadership: Manage, mentor, and develop the IT procurement team, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Provide strategic direction and oversee the team’s daily activities to ensure high performance and alignment with business goals.
• SAP Ariba Implementation: Lead the full-cycle implementation of SAP Ariba, from planning and requirements gathering to deployment and post-implementation support. Ensure the successful integration of SAP Ariba with existing systems and processes, optimizing procurement workflows and enhancing system capabilities.
• Operational Support: Provide daily operational support for SAP procurement modules, including Self Service Requisition, Procurement, Supplier Model, Sourcing, Enterprise Contract, and related peripheral applications. Ensure business process continuity and the achievement of departmental objectives.
• Incident Management: Oversee the prompt response to incident tickets and enhancement requests, ensuring timely resolution to maintain high levels of customer satisfaction.
•  System Configuration: Lead the configuration and implementation tasks for SAP modules, including approval rule configuration, buyer assignments, and other system maintenance activities. Ensure the effective configuration and implementation of procurement subsystems.
• Application Personalization: Oversee the customization and extension of SAP applications to meet specific business needs, enhancing user experience and ensuring system flexibility.
• Requirements Gathering and Solution Design: Collaborate with business stakeholders to define requirements, design solutions, and configure SAP applications. Oversee the preparation and execution of unit testing, test scripts, system integration testing, and deployment plans. Ensure comprehensive post-implementation support is provided.
• Vendor Collaboration: Work closely with SAP and other technology vendors to troubleshoot system issues, explore improvement opportunities, and drive innovation. Ensure that vendor engagements are managed effectively and deliver optimal value.
• Documentation and Training: Ensure that system configurations are thoroughly documented, and that training is provided to business users when new functionalities or changes are introduced. Promote knowledge sharing and continuous learning within the team.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Engage with global and cross-functional teams to resolve issues, support system enhancements, and ensure the seamless integration of SAP systems across the organization. Act as a key liaison between IT and business units to align technology solutions with business needs.
• Process Improvement: Continuously evaluate new technologies and industry trends to identify opportunities for process enhancements. Translate business needs into system specifications and drive initiatives that improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance the overall effectiveness of procurement operations.

Qualifications

• Implementation Expertise: Proven experience leading at least three full cycles of SAP Source-to-Pay (STP) module implementations, with strong skills in approval rule configuration, conversion activities, and SAP Ariba integration.
• Leadership Experience: Demonstrated ability to lead and manage IT teams, with a focus on driving results, fostering teamwork, and developing talent.
• Technical Proficiency: Deep knowledge of SAP procurement modules, including hands-on experience with STP-related configurations such as transaction account builder, approval rules, and SAP Ariba.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to align IT procurement strategies with overall business goals, driving innovation and delivering value through effective technology solutions.
• Education and Experience: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Information Technology, Business Administration, or a related field, with over 10 years of experience supporting and implementing SAP STP modules and procurement systems.
•  Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: Strong analytical abilities with a focus on identifying system improvements, optimizing procurement processes, and implementing effective solutions.
• Communication Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization.