SAP Implementation Project Manager

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced SAP Implementation Lead / Project Manager to serve as the internal owner of an SAP S/4HANA implementation. This role will lead the program from design through go-live and stabilization, acting as the central connector between business stakeholders, IT, and external implementation partners.

This individual will drive cross-functional execution across Finance, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Operations, Quality, and other key functions—translating business requirements into system solutions and leading decision-making throughout the enterprise transformation.

The ideal candidate brings proven, hands-on experience leading complex SAP implementations, preferably within 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, including planning, execution, testing, go-live, and post-go-live stabilization.
• Act as the primary internal owner of the SAP program and main point of contact for all SAP-related initiatives.
• Partner closely with executive leadership to ensure alignment with 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.
• Facilitate cross-functional workshops, design sessions, and decision forums.
• Resolve conflicts, manage trade-offs, and drive timely decision-making.

Implementation & Delivery

• Lead all phases of the SAP implementation lifecycle (discovery, design, build, testing, deployment, 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.

Partner & Stakeholder Management

• Act as the primary liaison between internal stakeholders 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.

Success in This Role Looks Like

First 90 Days

• Build strong relationships with key stakeholders and implementation partners.
• Develop working knowledge of the current SAP landscape, business processes, and project roadmap.
• Independently manage assigned project phases or workstreams with minimal escalation.

After 12 Months

• Consistent delivery of SAP initiatives on schedule and within approved scope.
• Strong stakeholder confidence in execution and communication.
• Measurable improvements in system adoption, process efficiency, and operational outcomes.

Required Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in ERP or SAP program/project management, preferably in manufacturing environments.
• Proven experience leading at least one full-cycle SAP S/4HANA implementation as the primary program or project lead.
• 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

• Ability to work onsite at the Elma, NY facility.