Solution Architect cum Program Manager

Role : Solution Architect cum Program Manager
Location : London, UK
FTE
Work Mode : Onsite
We are seeking a seasoned S/4HANA Finance Functional Consultant / Solution Architect cum Program Manager to join a high-impact SAP transformation program transitioning from SAP ECC to S/4HANA. The program also includes implementations of Ariba, SuccessFactors, and Concur. With the majority of build and configuration completed, the program is entering Systems Integration Testing (SIT), followed by User Acceptance Testing (UAT), Operations Acceptance Testing (OAT), and Dress Rehearsals. Some build activities will continue in parallel.

This role demands a hands-on leader with deep functional expertise in S/4HANA Finance, strong program management skills, and the ability to interface effectively with diverse stakeholders. Experience with Grants and Donor Funds, upstream systems like Summit, and transitioning programs to BAU support is essential.

Key Responsibilities
Functional & Solution Architecture:

• Provide expert guidance on S/4HANA Finance capabilities, especially in the context of ECC transition.
• Validate and refine existing configurations, support ongoing build activities.
• Ensure robust integration across Ariba (Procurement), SuccessFactors (HR), and Concur (Travel & Expense) modules.
• Oversee upstream and downstream application integration, including systems such as Summit and other financial platforms.
• Ensure data consistency, process alignment, and seamless flow across integrated systems.
• Address functional gaps and ensure alignment with business processes, especially around Grants and Donor Funds.

Program Management

• Lead and coordinate SIT, UAT, OAT, and Dress Rehearsals phases.
• Collaborate closely with the testing team to drive creation of test scenarios and test cases, ensure comprehensive test coverage, and support execution.
• Work with build/configuration teams to triage, prioritize, and resolve defects identified during testing.
• Track and mitigate risks, especially in a time and budget-constrained environment.
• Drive stakeholder engagement and communication across business, IT, and external partners.

Cutover Planning & Execution

• Develop and manage the cutover strategy and detailed cutover plan for the transition from ECC to S/4HANA.
• Coordinate cutover activities across Finance, HR, Procurement, and IT teams.
• Ensure readiness of systems, data, and stakeholders for go-live.
• Identify and manage dependencies, risks, and contingency plans related to cutover.
• Lead cutover rehearsals and ensure alignment with overall program timelines and business operations.

Post Go-Live Transition & BAU Support

• Lead the transition from implementation to Business-As-Usual (BAU) support.
• Define and implement stabilization plans, hypercare support models, and handover processes to operations teams.
• Ensure knowledge transfer, documentation, and readiness of support teams.
• Monitor post go-live performance and drive resolution of any residual issues.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Act as the primary point of contact for Finance-related topics.
• Facilitate workshops, issue resolution, and decision-making forums.
• Ensure alignment between business requirements and technical delivery.

Required Skills & Experience

• 10+ years of SAP Finance experience, with at least 2 full-cycle S/4HANA implementations.
• Strong understanding of SAP ECC to S/4HANA transition processes.
• Proven experience in Program/Project Management within SAP environments.
• Hands-on experience with Ariba, SuccessFactors, and Concur implementations and integrations.
• Deep understanding of upstream systems such as Summit, and downstream application integration in SAP landscapes.
• Experience with Grants and Donor Funds processes and configurations.
• Strong engagement with testing teams for test case creation, execution, and defect resolution.
• Demonstrated experience in transitioning programs to BAU support post go-live.
• Hands-on experience with cutover planning and execution in SAP programs.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work onsite in London 4 days/week.

Preferred Qualifications

• SAP Certification in S/4HANA Finance.
• Experience in public sector or non-profit environments.
• PMP or equivalent project management certification.