The SAP Implementation Lead / Project Manager will serve as the internal owner of Steuben Foods’ SAP S/4HANA implementation, responsible for driving the program from design through go-live and stabilization. This role acts as the central connector between business stakeholders, IT, and external implementation partners, ensuring alignment between business processes and system design.
This individual will lead cross-functional execution across Finance, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Operations, Quality, and other key functions, translating business requirements into system solutions and driving decision-making throughout the enterprise transformation.
The ideal candidate brings proven, hands-on experience leading complex SAP implementations preferred within the Food & Beverage manufacturing environments and thrives in highly collaborative, fast-paced settings.
Key Responsibilities
SAP Program Ownership
· Own and lead the end-to-end SAP S/4HANA implementation program, including planning, execution, testing, go-live, and post-go-live stabilization.
· Act as the primary internal owner of the SAP program and the main point of contact for all SAP-related initiatives.
· Partner closely with executive leadership to ensure the program aligns with broader business strategy and operational goals.
Cross-Functional Leadership
· Serve as the central point of coordination across Finance, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Operations, Quality, IT, and other functional teams.
· Drive alignment between business stakeholders and system design, ensuring requirements are clearly defined, prioritized, and delivered.
· Facilitate cross-functional workshops, design sessions, and decision forums.
· Resolve conflicts, manage trade-offs, and drive timely decision-making across departments.
Implementation & Delivery
· Lead all phases of the SAP implementation lifecycle, including discovery, design, build, testing, deployment, and hypercare.
· Manage scope, timelines, risks, dependencies, and issue resolution.
· Oversee system integration points and ensure end-to-end process integrity.
· Ensure business readiness, user adoption, and operational continuity throughout the transformation.
Partner & Stakeholder Management
· Act as the primary liaison between Steuben Foods and external SAP implementation partners
· Manage consulting partner performance, deliverables, and service-level expectations.
· Provide regular program updates to executive leadership and steering committees.
Change Management & Adoption
· Drive change management efforts, including communication, training, and process standardization.
· Ensure SAP solutions are embedded into business operations and deliver measurable business value.
· Support post-go-live optimization and continuous improvement initiatives.
Requirements:
Required Qualifications
· 5+ years of experience in ERP or SAP program/project management roles, with a strong focus on manufacturing environments.
· Proven experience leading at least one full-cycle SAP S/4HANA implementation as the primary program or project in manufacturing environment.
· Strong understanding of project management methodologies (Waterfall, Agile, or hybrid)
· Experience working cross-functionally with business, IT, and external vendors
· Proficiency with project management tools and documentation standards
Preferred Qualifications
· PMP, PRINCE2, or SAP-related certifications
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
· Ability to work onsite at the facility