Sr. Lead SAP IBP and Ariba

Senior Lead, IT Application Development – IBP and Ariba

Permanent hybrid role based in Carrigtwohill, Ireland

We are seeking a senior lead with extensive expertise in planning and procurement process. As a senior member of our organization, you will be responsible for overseeing the design, development, implementation, and maintenance of SAP systems within our organization. The successful candidate will possess in-depth knowledge of SAP MRP, IBP and Ariba modules and functionalities, as well as a proven track record of delivering high-quality solutions that meet business objectives. The ideal candidate will possess deep functional knowledge of SAP modules SAP IBP and Ariba.

Essential duties & responsibilities: (detailed description)

Key responsibilities include:

• Lead the integration of SAP IBP with SAP Ariba, ensuring seamless data flow and process alignment
• Collaborate with business stakeholders to understand requirements and translate them into scalable and efficient SAP solutions.
• Provide strategic guidance and thought leadership in SAP solution architecture, ensuring alignment with business objectives and industry best practices.
• Collaborate closely with business stakeholders to understand complex requirements and translate them into scalable and efficient SAP solutions.
• Mentor and coach junior team members, providing guidance on solution design, configuration, and integration to foster their professional growth and development.
• Drive innovation and continuous improvement by evaluating emerging SAP technologies and recommending solutions to enhance business processes and drive operational excellence.
• Act as a subject matter expert on SAP S4/HANA and/or ECC platforms, leveraging deep technical expertise to guide solution design and implementation.
• Lead cross-functional teams in the configuration, customization, and integration of SAP modules, ensuring adherence to architectural standards and quality guidelines.
• Partner with business leaders and IT teams to develop strategic roadmaps for SAP initiatives, prioritizing projects and investments based on business value and impact.
• Stay abreast of SAP advancements and industry trends, sharing insights and best practices with the team and stakeholders to drive continuous learning and improvement.
• Act as a liaison between business users and IT teams, facilitating communication and ensuring alignment of SAP solutions with business objectives.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex SAP issues, including system errors, performance issues, and data inconsistencies.
• Provide knowledge and expertise to department heads and process owners in identifying opportunities for technology and prioritizing initiatives.
• Conduct regular system audits to identify and address areas for improvement, ensuring maximum efficiency and effectiveness of SAP systems.

Education & special trainings:

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited university in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, Supply Chain Management, or equivalent field required.
• APICS accredited or professional supply chain accreditation preferred but not essential.
• Lean sigma certification preferred (e.g., Lean Practitioner, Green Belt).

Qualifications & experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Business Administration, or related field; Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in SAP solution architecture and implementation, with a focus on procurement and planning process.
• Extensive functional knowledge of SAP modules including MM, MRP, Ariba and IBP.
• Experience in design, configuration, and deployment of SAP IBP modules, including Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP), Demand Planning, Supply Planning, and Inventory Optimization.
• Expertise in SAP S4/HANA and/or ECC platforms, including hands-on experience in solution design, configuration, and customization.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate effectively with senior stakeholders.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a strategic mindset and a passion for driving business transformation.
• SAP certifications in relevant modules or technologies are highly desirable.

Physical & mental requirements:

• Demonstrated professional experience in IT/IS and/or other related business discipline is required
• Ability to understand systems, interrelationships and recommend enhancements, and building IS strategy
• Demonstrated leadership, interpersonal, analytical, change management and communication skills
• Ability to work effectively across functions and build successful relationships in global matrix organization
• Awareness of current and future trends in the industry and competitors