Efficient implementation of SAP S/4HANA projects as SAP consultant

Working together with customers to design processes in SAP efficiently and securely

Claudia Jost has worked for valantic since 2018 and implements large S/4HANA projects as an SAP consultant in the area of purchasing and master data. In the interview, she gives us insight into the SAP consultant’s world, talks about efficient implementation of SAP S/4HANA projects, the challenges of being a consultant, and explains what she likes about valantic as an employer.

How was your start at valantic?

I was approached by valantic about a vacant position. As I desperately wanted to gain more experience in large S/4HANA projects, this was the perfect opportunity for me.

I remember that the entire application process was very uncomplicated, extremely fast, and agile. Even before I had accepted the job, valantic sent me my employment contract and thus clearly showed me that they would like to have me as a new employee and colleague on the team. That’s part of what made my decision to join valantic so easy. The smooth application process, technical development possibilities, and participation in exciting S/4HANA projects were just right for me.

What do you especially like about valantic?

As a consultant, you are often on the road by yourself. That’s different at valantic. We keep the big picture in mind, we regard ourselves as a company, and no one fights by him- or herself. If I don’t know what to do next, I can always find colleagues who can help.

In addition, I appreciate the family atmosphere, the outside-of-work activities, and the open ear and willingness to help among my colleagues. My previous employer exemplified this kind of culture, and it was important to me that my new workplace should have a similar mindset.

What are the challenges of your job?

In my role as a consultant, I am responsible for two issues. In the project business, my focal areas are master data and purchasing.

In master data projects, the step from the old system to the new system is one of the greatest challenges. For this, the master data has to be processed and cleaned up accordingly. This is often hard work, but it is important for a problem-free and smooth transfer from the old system to the new one.

I see another challenge, particularly in S/4HANA implementation projects with a focus on purchasing. Frequently, we need to convince our customers that the new system will produce greater value and added value. However, once the customer gets used to the changes, all problems are resolved quickly. Many new functions, especially when using Fiori apps, persuade users very quickly, so the step to the S/4HANA system is a real development.

What exactly are your tasks as an SAP consultant?

As an SAP consultant, I work on SAP projects in the areas of master data and purchasing. My main focus is on process consulting. I’m not a technician or a developer. I work with the customer to optimize processes, and that means making processes easier and more secure. It’s important to me that at the end of the day, customers have as much fun with the processes as I do.

I also write manuals for Espresso Tutorials in my spare time. This collaboration arose through my Xing network, and seven manuals have been published on purchasing, balance score card, supplier assessment, and iDocs. The structure of the manuals is very important to me. I like to use examples to illustrate how something is implemented in SAP, what benefits it brings, and what to look for. This is often not the case in the standard literature.

Thank you for the interview, Claudia!