As SAP ECC approaches its 2027 end-of-support deadline, organizations worldwide are accelerating migration efforts. While the benefits of SAP S/4HANA, such as real-time analytics, cloud flexibility, and AI-driven automation, are widely recognized, the complexity of migration poses significant challenges.
One of the biggest reasons SAP migration projects fail or experience delays is a lack of the right expertise. A well-structured SAP team with diverse technical, strategic, and change management skills can be the difference between a seamless transition and a costly disruption.
This guide explores the critical roles and skills required for a successful SAP S/4HANA migration, offering insights on how to build the best SAP team for the job.
The Growth of SAP S/4HANA and What It Means for Businesses
The push for digital transformation has led to a surge in SAP S/4HANA adoption. Companies are no longer just considering migration. They are actively making the switch to remain competitive.
Specifically, 55% of companies recognize sales growth as one of the key benefits of SAP S/4HANA, achieved through new business models, markets, and customer groups. Additionally, 44% acknowledge its ability to enable rapid and flexible adaptation to new challenges, while 35% value its role in accelerating innovation. These figures highlight the benefits of SAP S/4HANA for streamlining business processes.
The Benefits of SAP S/4HANA
Some other benefits of SAP S/4HANA include:
- Real-Time Insights – S/4HANA’s in-memory computing delivers real-time analytics, enabling faster and more informed decision-making.
- Cloud Integration – Businesses can deploy SAP in the cloud, on-premise, or in a hybrid setup, offering unmatched flexibility.
- Automation & AI Capabilities – Built-in machine learning and AI features help automate processes, reducing manual effort and improving efficiency.
- Regulatory Compliance & Security – With cybersecurity threats on the rise, S/4HANA’s improved security features help businesses meet industry regulations and protect sensitive data.
The Challenges of The SAP S/4HANA Migration
Yet, despite these benefits, SAP S/4HANA migration comes with hurdles, such as:
- System Complexity – The transition to S/4HANA requires extensive planning and customization, making implementation a resource-intensive process.
- Data Migration Risks – Moving legacy data to the new system can lead to data loss, inconsistencies, or integrity issues if not handled properly.
To put this into perspective, around 77% of organizations identify SAP data migration and management as a major challenge in the transition from SAP ECC 6.0 to S/4HANA.
- Integration Issues – Ensuring seamless compatibility with existing third-party applications and legacy systems can be challenging.
- Skill Shortages – Finding professionals with expertise in S/4HANA implementation and management is increasingly difficult.
Key Skills Needed for a Successful SAP S/4HANA Migration
A strong SAP migration team must be built on a foundation of technical expertise, project management skills, and business process understanding.
Let’s take a closer look at the essential SAP skills and roles required:
1. SAP S/4HANA Technical Expertise
SAP migration involves configuring new system architecture, ensuring compatibility, and optimizing performance.
Key technical roles include:
- SAP S/4HANA Consultants – Professionals who specialize in the different functional modules (Finance, Supply Chain, HR, Procurement) and help configure the system to match business needs.
- SAP Basis Administrators – Experts who manage system performance, security, and infrastructure, ensuring the SAP environment is stable and scalable.
- SAP Developers (ABAP, Fiori, UI5) – Specialists who develop custom applications, interfaces, and user-friendly dashboards tailored to business workflows.
These professionals must be proficient in SAP data migration tools like SAP Data Services, Migration Cockpit, and LSMW. Experience with cloud deployments and SAP Activate methodology is also crucial.
2. Project Management and Planning
A successful SAP S/4HANA migration requires careful planning, execution, and coordination across multiple departments.
The right SAP project team should have the following:
- SAP Project Managers – Individuals responsible for defining project scope, timelines, budgets, and risk mitigation strategies.
- Business Analysts – Experts who bridge the gap between IT and business stakeholders, ensuring the new system aligns with company goals.
- Change Management Specialists – Professionals who manage communication, training, and adoption strategies to ensure employees are prepared for the transition.
A strong SAP project team is essential to prevent scope creep, control costs, and keep the migration on track.
3. Data Migration and Analytics
Data migration is one of the most complex aspects of transitioning to SAP S/4HANA. Without careful planning, businesses risk data loss, corruption, or system failures.
Skilled professionals in this area include:
- SAP Data Migration Specialists – Experts in data extraction, transformation, and loading (ETL), ensuring data integrity and accuracy.
- Data Analysts – Professionals who validate data quality and optimize reporting structures for better insights.
- Security & Compliance Experts – Individuals who ensure data migration aligns with industry regulations, GDPR, and cybersecurity best practices.
Using automation tools and AI-powered analytics, businesses can streamline data migration and enhance long-term reporting capabilities.
4. Change Management and End-User Training
Even the most well-executed migration can fail if employees struggle to adapt. Change management and user training are crucial to driving adoption.
A strong change management team should include the following:
- Training Coordinators – Specialists who develop and deliver training programs tailored to different user roles.
- User Support Teams – Help Desk professionals who provide post-migration assistance to address issues in real-time.
- Internal Champions – Key employees who act as advocates for the new system, helping their teams embrace the change.
Investing in proper training can dramatically reduce resistance and improve long-term success.
5. Industry-Specific SAP Knowledge
SAP S/4HANA is a powerful tool, but its success depends on how well it’s configured for a business’s unique needs. Industry-specific expertise ensures a tailored approach.
Key areas include:
- Finance & Banking – Compliance, risk management, and real-time financial reporting.
- Manufacturing & Supply Chain – Inventory management, production planning, and logistics optimization.
- Retail & E-commerce – Omnichannel customer experiences and real-time stock tracking.
Hiring SAP specialists with experience in your industry ensures a smoother transition and better long-term ROI.
How to Build the Best Team for SAP S/4HANA Migration
Building the right team for your SAP S/4HANA migration is key to a successful transition. From selecting experienced professionals to structuring the team effectively, every step plays a critical role in ensuring a smooth and efficient process.
Here's how you can create a SAP team that sets your migration up for success:
1. Partnering with SAP Recruitment Experts
Finding experienced SAP professionals can be challenging, especially with the rising demand for talent. A SAP recruitment agency like us can connect businesses with the right candidates for permanent positions or contract-based roles.
Here’s how a SAP recruitment agency can help your business:
- Identify candidates with niche expertise in S/4HANA migration, ensuring the right technical SAP skills and industry experience.
- Fill both permanent positions and contract-based roles quickly to keep projects on schedule.
- Reduce hiring timelines by using established networks and talent pools.
- Ensure access to top SAP talent through proactive headhunting and market insights.
- Advise on market trends, salary benchmarks, and workforce planning to align hiring strategies with business needs.
- Assess candidate certifications and hands-on experience to ensure professionals have the right mix of knowledge and practical expertise.
2. Prioritizing Certifications and Hands-On Experience
Certifications such as SAP Certified Technology Associate and SAP Certified Application Associate are valuable, but hands-on migration experience is just as important. Look for professionals with a proven track record of executing SAP projects successfully.
To source the best candidates, it is important to look for the following SAP skills and certifications:
- SAP Certified Technology Associate or SAP Certified Application Associate credentials.
- A proven track record of executing S/4HANA migration projects.
- Hands-on experience in system integration, data migration, and troubleshooting.
- Familiarity with automation, AI-driven processes, and cloud deployments.
3. Structuring Your SAP Team Effectively
Choosing the right mix of talent depends on several factors, including project scope and business needs.
When building an effective SAP team, it’s important to consider the following:
- Project Complexity and Duration – Short-term projects may benefit from contractors, while long-term initiatives may require permanent employees.
- Need for Long-Term SAP Support – Businesses planning ongoing system enhancements may require in-house expertise.
- Budget Considerations and Internal Capabilities – Weighing the cost of permanent hires versus the flexibility of external consultants is essential.
Many businesses find a hybrid model, combining in-house talent with external SAP specialists, offers the best balance of expertise and cost-efficiency.
The Risks of an Underprepared SAP Team
An underprepared SAP team can jeopardize the success of an SAP S/4HANA migration, leading to costly mistakes and operational setbacks.
Common risks include:
- Project Delays – Lack of expertise often results in missed deadlines, unforeseen technical challenges, and prolonged implementation phases. Without experienced professionals, troubleshooting issues takes longer, further delaying progress.
- Cost Overruns – Poor planning and execution lead to budget blowouts. Unexpected technical issues, rework, and additional consultant fees can significantly increase project costs beyond initial estimates.
- Data Loss & Operational Disruptions – Inadequate data migration processes can cause critical information to be lost, duplicated, or corrupted. Without a well-structured migration plan, businesses may experience extended system downtime, affecting daily operations and customer service.
- Integration Failures – A lack of expertise in system compatibility can result in integration issues between SAP S/4HANA and existing third-party applications, causing disruptions across business functions.
- Security & Compliance Risks – An untrained team may overlook security protocols, exposing sensitive data to cyber threats or failing to meet regulatory compliance standards, leading to potential legal and financial penalties.
- User Adoption Challenges – Insufficient training and change management can lead to resistance from employees, reducing productivity and delaying the full benefits of SAP S/4HANA.
A skilled team is essential for a smooth S/4HANA migration, preventing delays, cost overruns, and data risks. Investing in the right talent ensures a seamless transition and long-term success.
How to Build an Effective Team For The SAP S/4HANA Migration
Building the right team for SAP S/4HANA migration is about more than just technical expertise. A strong team ensures a smooth transition with minimal disruption, helping businesses move forward with confidence. Bringing together internal specialists and external SAP professionals creates the right balance to tackle challenges effectively.
Prioritizing experienced professionals, structured project management, and strategic hiring helps prevent costly delays and system failures. Partnering with SAP recruitment experts makes it easier to find the right talent and keep migration projects on track.
With the right SAP team in place, businesses can take full advantage of SAP S/4HANA. Real-time analytics, automation, and improved efficiency become a reality when the migration is handled by the right people.
Struggling to Find The SAP Talent Your Business Needs?
The 2027 SAP ECC support deadline is fast approaching, and businesses that delay risk falling behind. At Amoria Bond, we specialize in SAP recruitment, helping businesses find the right talent for seamless S/4HANA migration. Whether you need experienced SAP consultants, project managers, or data migration specialists, we can connect you with the professionals who will make your migration a success.
Get in touch today to discuss your SAP hiring needs.
