Categories
Digital Job Descriptions

SEO Expert : Job Description

Use our template to create a compelling and comprehensive SEO Expert job description to attract top talent.

SEO, or natural referencing, has become a key point in generating quality traffic on a website. And users are growing more impatient: 91% of clicks are on the first page of the search engine. It is hence essential for a company to devote resources to maximising its online visibility. Enter the SEO Expert.


Also explore the role of the IoT Consultant

What is the role of the SEO Expert?

Performing an audit

The SEO Expert is often called upon by a company to review its SEO strategy. Their first mission is to analyse the current state of the site (metadata, keywords, etc.), the target, the impact (click-through rate, bounce rate, etc.), as well as the websites of competitors.

Strategy prescription

Once the analysis phase has been completed, the SEO Expert will be able to define an action plan and establish the strategy to be put in place to optimise the visibility of the site, according to the company’s sector of activity. Then it’s time to define the most effective keywords, optimise internal and external links, and reorganise the pages of the site depending on the positioning and objectives of the website.

Implementation and monitoring, performance measurement

They must then coordinate the implementation of all actions in conjunction with the technical teams. Experts must also manage the SEO teams if these exist, and work together with the content creation teams. They must put in place best practices and follow up to ensure their application. Finally, they must analyse whether the measures put in place have been effective and see if further actions are necessary.

Required skills of the SEO Expert

Knowledge of SEO tools and internet languages

Experts must have in-depth technical knowledge: they must know how to use basic SEO tools such as Google Analytics or Semrush as well as more specific tools. These tools are used during the analytical phase of a project and to measure the results of the actions implemented. It is also useful to have knowledge of HTML, CSS or even Javascript.

Analytical mind and rigour

The SEO Expert must be perfectly comfortable with numbers and master the (many) KPIs essential to their activity. They must also be organised and show great rigour, prioritising tasks and building a precise action plan. Since SEO is a discipline that evolves very quickly, the expert must update their knowledge very regularly, in particular regarding search engine algorithms.

Interpersonal skills

The SEO expert must be a good communicator. They have to work in conjunction with several teams and relay information. The Expert must also have deep knowledge of the company’s field of activity to design a proper SEO strategy. That also involves knowing how to put themselves in the shoes of the target audience.

Within the industry

The SEO profession is increasingly popular because of the thousands of websites being created every day. Companies are engaged in real battles of visibility, and the SEO Expert is at their forefront. SEO experts can work in an agency, in the marketing department of a company, or operate as independent consultants.

Salary of the SEO Expert

The average daily rate fluctuates between €250 and €600.

Training of the SEO Expert

To access this role, it is recommended to have a university degree from a marketing or engineering school.

It is possible to start with a professional license (e.g. SEO or web editor), then complete a master’s degree in digital communication, multimedia and e-commerce.

The competition is strong and it is often necessary to garner several years of experience before obtaining the desired position.

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ERP & SAP Job Descriptions

Salesforce Consultant : Job Description

Use our template to create a compelling and comprehensive Salesforce Consultant job description to attract top talent.

Salesforce is a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) platform that allows companies to streamline and optimise their interactions with their customers. The Salesforce consultant is on the IT side of customer relations and specialises in the Salesforce ecosystem. Their role involves advising companies on the implementation strategy and carrying out studies to address all customer requirements.


Also explore the role of the RPA Consultant

What is the role of the Salesforce Consultant?

Define user needs and write specifications

Above all, the first task of the Salesforce Consultant is to collect the company´s needs and offer a set of Salesforce tools that address what the team is trying to achieve. Once the information has been collected, the consultant must write the specification describing the project´s needs and the proposed solutions.

Managing the development of the Salesforce ecosystem

Once the needs and specifications are established, the consultant is in charge of setting up the various tools and managing their development. They often keep assisting the team throughout the project´s life, helping optimise the system and the customer relationship strategy.

User training

Another key mission of the consultant is user training. Once the tools are deployed, the consultant must help teach users how to take advantage of them and help them get a good grip on the platform in general.

Required skills of the Salesforce Consultant

Mastery of the Salesforce CRM tool

The expert must, of course, have perfect knowledge of the Salesforce platform. And have a good understanding of the various tools available within it.

Analytical spirit and rigour

Also, a Salesforce Consultant must have a good analytical mind and good organisational skills. They should be able to process databases and extract relevant analyses to improve the customer relationship strategy in place.

Knowledge of marketing and sales

In addition, to be able to understand the needs of the team; it is useful for the consultant to know and master the essentials of client and prospect relationships. It also pays to have a 360° view of business processes and the specifics of the market in which the company operates.

Within the industry

A Salesforce Consultant can work in a wide variety of organisations; consulting firms specializing in IS, or companies that use this solution, all sectors combined.

Salary of the Salesforce Consultant

The average daily rate fluctuates between €300 and €800.

Training of the Salesforce Consultant

In conclusion, to access this role, it is recommended to have a university degree from a business or engineering school. It is also possible to access this profession by having completed a professional master’s degree specialising in Customer Relations and Marketing. Or in Management Sciences. To specialise in Salesforce CRM, the consultant should later take specific training provided by Salesforce or any third-party training organization. 

The Salesforce Consultant can evolve into the manager of a team of consultants or an in-house Salesforce. They can also transition to another customer relationship management solution.

Learn more about ERP and advantages and disadvantages of SAP

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IT Infrastructure Job Descriptions

Site Reliability Engineer (SRE) : Job Description

Use our template to create a compelling and comprehensive Site Reliability Engineer job description to attract top talent.

The Site Reliability Engineer (SRE) is an increasingly coveted function within IT departments.

The Site Reliability Engineer role stems from an approach to production systems management created within Google in 2003. As well as from the expansion of the DevOps mentality. The function is based on the implementation of synergies between development and operations to accelerate the creation and deployment of applications.

Also discover our interview: How to Become an Azure MVP

What is the role of the SRE?


Analyze project specifications

The first mission of an SRE is to analyze all security and operational problems of an application. Figuring then out what works and what doesn’t to optimize it.

Work in collaboration with developers and salespeople

The SRE regularly meets with developers and salespeople to benefit from their feedback and do a better job. The opinion of both sides is important to understand user experience and what the users criticize in terms of safety/reliability. They must understand what the developers have do at the technical level to assess problems more effectively.

Deploy automation

In order to save time and be more efficient, the site reliability engineer should be able to set up automated processes for recurring tasks.

Also read the IT Infrastructure best practices

Required skills of the SRE

Be comfortable with programming languages

The SRE should also be able to write and program all types of applications. And should also be comfortable with the most used coding languages including JavaScript, Java and .NET. More recent tools, ​​like Node.js or Golang, are also a plus.

Translate business language into technical language

In addition, when the SRE receives the specifications, they must be able to understand the app’s business goal and then put in place the technical means to resolve the problem.

Understand all points of view

The site reliability engineer will also have to put himself in the shoes of the developers. But also of the end users to understand what roadblocks may arise and how to overcome them.

Within the industry

In general, an SRE is first and foremost a developer, who, in addition, has knowledge of operational infrastructure and performance issues.

Salary of the SRE

The average daily rate of a Site Reliability Engineer fluctuates between €550 and €750.

Training to become an SRE

To become a Site Reliability Engineer, it is best to have a background in computer science and a focus in language and programming.

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Job Descriptions Project Manager

E-CRM Project Manager : Job Description

Use our template to create a compelling and comprehensive E-CRM PM job description to attract top talent.


The e-CRM (electronic customer relationship management) project manager position is at the crossroads of the IT, marketing and sales functions. This role occupies an important place in the field of customer relations on the web; since it coordinates the implementation of digital campaigns across all of the digital platforms of a company.


Explore also the role of the SOC Analyst: Job Description

What is the role of the e-CRM Project Manager?

Build the appropriate databases

The experts must first identify the target customers in order to adapt all pertinent actions according to the objectives set. They must then define the means to collect all the relevant data for a given customer. For example, age, family situation, opinion on a product, etc., and they must set up the according processes.

Develop programs to connect with customers

Further, the e-CRM Project Manager must use the right methods to create links with customers and retain them. For example by sending email campaigns. The objectives are to better understand the consumer and retain them to develop sales and generate profit. One of the priorities of the position is therefore to analyze the behaviour of users and their browsing habits.

Put in place strategies to offer products that meet customer expectations

In addition, the goal of the e-CRM Project Manager is to provide value to the customer. To meet their purchasing potential and follow the evolution of their tastes. They need to define a strategy for leveraging visitor and customer data and implement e-CRM solutions to offer products adapted to the profile of each contact. They then set up automated campaigns and tracks their actions to measure ROI.

Required skills to

Excellent analytical and project management skills

The e-CRM Project Manager must also know the client and develop a link between them and the company. For this, they must have robust data processing and analytical skills and a strong appetite for project management.

Good ability to interpret customer reactions

Good interpersonal skills are a must here. The expert is in direct contact with the client and must have good interpersonal skills to be able to interpret user behaviours and needs.

Strong technical knowledge of digital tools

The expert in e-CRM Project Management must have perfect knowledge of the various digital tools employed by the company. In order to carry out the relevant analysis, ensure the correct implementation and monitoring of campaigns. They must also master statistical tools.

Also discover the other Project Managements roles and career paths

The E-CRM Project Manager within the industry

This job has been very popular for some years now and keeps attracting more and more young graduates in commerce, IT or marketing. However, there are not that many available positions, and the hiring rate is relatively low due to strong competition.

This role has developed in many sectors of activity: e-commerce, banking, insurance, telecoms …

Salary of the e-CRM Projet Manager

The average daily rate fluctuates between €500 and €900.

Training of the e-CRM Project Manager

Most e-CRM Project Managers have a university-level degree. Studies in sociology and training as a webmaster also help you gain access to this kind of position. But you should know that prior professional experience is essential before becoming an e-CRM Project Manager.

In terms of evolution; after a few years of experience as an expert in e-CRM Project Management, it is possible to occupy a position of marketing director in a relatively technical context.

Categories
ERP & SAP Job Descriptions

SAP S/4HANA Overview

S/4HANA represents one of today’s most buoyant areas of enterprise IT. Investing time in developing your S/4 expertise can lead to a very successful and reliable career. But what is this new iteration of SAP’s ERP all about? How does it differ from its predecessor, ECC6? Time for a quick overview of SAP S/4HANA. 

S/4HANA is short for “Simplified For HANA (Hi-Performance Analytical Appliance).” While ECC6 objective is to run on a variety of databases from vendors such as Oracle or IBM, S/4HANA; as its name suggests; can only operate on SAP HANA. Launched in 2015, SAP’s in-memory database allows for increase data access speed and greater live data analysis capabilities. This is a key advantage in the era of the connected enterprise and data insights. Additionally, a different column-based data organisation allows for the reduction of the number of databases needed to integrate all the information. This allows to streamline and speed up data analysis. 

But let’s dive into the details of this overview of SAP S/4HANA.

SAP S/4HANA vs ECC6: A New UX 

Additionally, S/4HANA comes with significant updates. Among the most immediately noticeable changes is the system’s reliance on the SAP Fiori 3 UX. The new user experience streamlines day-to-day use of the platform for both developers and end-users. 


Learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of SAP


Module updates and data integration 

Another big change introduced by S/4HANA comes in terms of module and component organisation.  

Firstly, data from what were two separate modules; Financial Accounting (FI) and Controlling (CO); is now integrated into a single pool of information: the Universal Journal. The new arrangement allows users and business managers to make better and faster decisions from a more holistic financial and management perspective.  

By integrating all accounting-relevant information from various components into a single, universal journal, S/4HANA speeds up data processes by eliminating redundancies and data reconciliation. The result is a data insights ecosystem that puts less strain on the system and has a reduced memory footprint. 

Embedded analytics and Machine Learning 

Additionally, a built-in data analytics module further supports this integrated data processing approach. Embedded Analytics leverages SAP ABAP Core Data Services technology to create Virtual Data Models out of operational data and provide real-time operational reporting. In other words, everything that business users need to operate from a smart business cockpit packed with data insights and forward-looking tools.  

Furthermore, embedded Machine Learning capabilities push these predictive tools to a new level, allowing companies to build smart applications like predictive pricing and maintenance. 

Greenfield vs. Brownfield implementation

First of all, it is important to note that not all S/4HANA migration projects work in the same way, and therefore, the expertise you will require and obtain will depend on the type of project you are involved in. 

A greenfield implementation refers to the process of adopting S/4HANA and designing its ERP system from scratch. This approach parts from the business and operational needs of the system to then come up with the technical infrastructure that will make it possible. Greenfield projects can be applied when an organization has no previous ERP system or processes in place, as well as when it wants to design a completely new one.

Conversely, brownfield implementations part from already present processes or systems and convert them to the S/4HANA platform. This process involves the revision of the entire previous ecosystem and then the optimisation of existing processes. Companies who are already working with SAP’s previous suite (ECC6 and want to upgrade to S/4HANA, often apply it.

Blueprinting

Preparation is fundamental. A successful migration to S/4HANA is dependent on the proper outlining of a series of key processes. Since the ERP suite has a one source of truth approach, these involve integrating all relevant data into the same data pools. The processes will be approached differently in greenfield and brownfield migrations.

For example, all accounting-related data will be entered once into the Universal Journal. A similar process will be carried out to unify all partner-related information into the Business Partner data pool.  A thorough mapping and configuration of New Asset Accounting will be required to migrate to S/4HANA finance, etc.

The team in charge of the migration will need to make an inventory of all preexisting data sets and figure out a way of adapting them to the S/4HANA ecosystem. These processes involve a lot of data cleaning and reconciliation and can take a lot of time. However, companies must ensure they put enough focus on this step, as it will serve as the backbone on which to build a next-generation ERP and a truly intelligent digital enterprise.

This overview of SAP S/4HANA piqued your interest? Want to make the most of S/4HANA’s career potential? Check out also our comprehensive S/4HANA Careers Guide.


Need advice on how to start or develop your freelance consulting business in tech or IT? Need to start a new permanent or freelance assignment? Join Mindquest and get support from our team of experts.

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Job Descriptions Web Developer

React.js Developer : Job Description

Use our template to create a compelling and comprehensive React.js Dev job description to attract top talent.

In the field of web development, there is a diversity of jobs depending on the programming language or environment concerned web developer, full-stack developer, swift developer, node.js developer… The React.js Developer is among these different specializations.

React.js is a JavaScript code library used for creating user interfaces. React.js developers are mainly responsible for front-end web application development.


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What is the role of a React.js Developer?

User interface development

Firstly, the main mission of the developer React.js lies in front-end development. Using the JavaScript library allows coders to quickly develop user interfaces. React.js is generally used for creating projects that require a certain aestheticism. Easier to read and write than PHP and offering good performance; React.js quickly won over the developers community and its adoption keeps on growing within the industry.

Unit testing

Further, performing unit tests makes it possible to verify that the developed application works perfectly and does not have any problem with its code linking.

In addition, it is a guarantee of quality that the developer must not neglect in their activities to perfectly meet the expectations of the client or project.

Writing technical documents

To avoid misunderstandings and to better cater to the end user’s needs, React.js developers may also be required to write technical documents.

Required skills of the React.js Developer

Mastery of languages

These developers must, of course, master the React environment.

For instance, being familiar with other languages ​​such as HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript and a number of APIs… Technical tools and frameworks related to web development are also great complementary assets.

Curiosity

Moreover, the developer must be curious about the advances in web environments and cutting-edge technologies. In order to apply the latest innovations to the design of interfaces.

Adaptability

The web environment is constantly evolving with new tools and languages. This requires developers to be also able to easily adapt to the changing ecosystem to remain at the forefront of development.

Within the industry

React.js was created in 2013 by Facebook to manage the network’s news feed. Instagram, Netflix, Airbnb or even WhatsApp use this library.

React appeals to developers because of its quick interface creation capabilities and ease of use.

Salary of the React.js Developer

The average daily rate of a React.js Developer fluctuates between €350 and €500.

Training of the React.js Developer

To become a React.js Developer, it is recommended to follow a computer engineering training specializing in web development. More specifically in React.js

Discover all the web development programming skills and professions

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Digital Job Descriptions Project Manager

Creative Technologist : Job Description

Use our template to create a compelling and comprehensive Creative Technologist job description to attract top talent.

When it comes to creating new marketing strategies, brands know they need to invest in emerging technologies to stand out from the competition. They are therefore constantly looking for digital experiences combining emotion and innovation. Tt is in this kind of context indeed that they seek the help of a Creative Technologist. 

The Creative Technologist plays a big role in the digitalisation of an agency or a brand. Their main mission is to help position brands through technology and innovation. It is a hybrid job requiring skills in technology, marketing and design. 


Interested in exploring more roles within tech? Take a look at the role of the Salesforce Consultant

What is the role of a Creative Technologist? 

Keep up with tech trends 

The first mission of the Creative Technologist is to keep abreast of the latest technologies, trends and industry events. That is to say, everything a specialist in innovation should be aware of. 

Understand the organisation and manage information 

Moreover, they must have a good understanding of the company’s culture to be able to ensure proper distribution of information within the company and with the outside world.  

They know how to manage a project internally as well as externally, ensuring that information always flows correctly between the different teams. 

Invent, experiment and create prototypes 

The Creative Technologist must also be able to deliver innovative ideas by going beyond traditional means. They must know how to design digital solutions and imagine how they could be used by the company. 

After having experienced with a piece of software, an application or a service, they must make prototypes (demos) to present them internally or to their client.  

Required skills 

Communication skills 

The Creative Technologist is in constant contact with the marketing department and teams of developers or creatives. They are also called upon to meet with multiple interlocutors during presentations, site visits and calls for tenders. Therefore, they must be able to introduce a technology or solution in an educational way and convince the audience of its advantages. 

Ability to anticipate and estimate 

The Creative Technologist must be able to estimate the costs generated by the digital products and uses they propose. Before the project materializes, they must anticipate all stages, from pre-production to daily operations, to identify any problems that may prevent the idea or project from working. 

Strong technical background 

The Creative Technologist must have very good knowledge of computer languages and software, as well as master digital communication techniques. They are often coders and computer scientists. 

Within the industry 

The profession of Creative Technologist is halfway between design and research and requires great versatility. Although Creative Technologists are still relatively few, their future is very promising in digital and general communication agencies. Their expertise is increasingly important to companies that need to be able to quickly respond to new and evolving consumer trends. 

Salary 

The average daily rate of a Creative Technologist is between €800 and €1,500. 

Training 

There is no specific training at this time for the role of Creative Technologist. The profession is accessible to IT professionals (project managers, developer, etc.) and communication professionals, requiring solid experience and strong technical and digital skills. However, a college degree is highly recommended. Advanced knowledge of UX (User Experience), ergonomics, information architecture, development, graphics, and marketing and communications are highly appreciated. 

In terms of career development, there is no clear path: the Creative Technologist follows the evolution of market needs, the movement of technological innovations and current cultural trends while trying to anticipate the future. 

Also discover the other Project Managements roles and career paths

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Job Descriptions Web Developer

Ruby Developer : Job Description

Use our template to create a compelling and comprehensive Ruby Dev job description to attract top talent.

In the field of web development, there are many specialities and languages ​​including Swift, Node.js, React.js or Ruby. Ruby is a free programming language. It is object-oriented and multi-paradigm. Relatively few developers choose to specialise in this language, although its syntax is easy to understand and pleasant to use. However, it is a popular language in digital start-ups and companies, such as Airbnb, Hulu or Groupon. Discover the role of the Ruby Developer.


Also explore the role of the QlikView Developer

What is the role of a Ruby Developer?

Analyse project specifications

The first mission is to understand the needs of their client, whether internal or external. It’s also to implement the programming solutions best suited to the budget and timing of the project.

Develop adapted applications and functionalities

Using the Ruby programming language and the open-source Ruby on Rails framework, the developer is responsible for coding and designing web applications that respect the specifications established by the web project manager or IT manager.

Manage tests and monitor project development

Throughout the coding process, the Ruby Developer is responsible for the testing. Once the solutions are in place, the developer must ensure that everything works properly. They must also often train their client or internal teams in the new systems installed.

Required skills of the Ruby Developer

Mastery of the Ruby language

The developer must master this programming language at their fingertips, as well as the open-source Ruby on Rails framework. It is also useful to master other web languages: HTML, CSS, Javascript…

Ability to self-educate

The Ruby language evolves regularly, so developers must always be aware of new features and be able to use them effectively. This requires regular reading and self-training.

Polyvalence

The developer must often be able to work on the web, on mobile applications, on video games … They must, therefore, have knowledge in all these areas in addition to their technical programming knowledge.

Quick execution

If there is a problem with a web or mobile application, it must be managed quickly. The expert must, therefore, know how to analyze where the malfunction comes from and find the solution in the shortest possible time.

Within the industry

The Ruby speciality is quite rare for a developer, so the profile that is quite sought after by companies. The expert can work in a web agency, as a permanent employee or as a freelancer.

Salary of the Ruby Developer

The average daily rate fluctuates between €300 and €550.

Training of the Ruby Developer

In conclusion, a degree from a college or technical school can help candidates access this position. However, it is possible to specialise in Ruby through specific training and certifications. There are also plenty of online resources for professionals to self-educate.

Discover all the web development programming skills and professions

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Data & Business Intelligence Job Descriptions

Data Analyst

Data Analyst is the go-to expert for all operations related to the company’s databases. They assemble and processes data in order to assess business activity and make appropriate recommendations. Their job allows them to “make the data speak” by interpreting them.

This relatively new digital profession is essential in all sectors: commerce, finance, banking, insurance…


Also explore the role of the IoT Consultant

What is the role of a Data Analyst?

Create and model databases

Certainly, one of the first missions of the Data Analyst is to collect, process and study statistical data to produce business analysis and provide recommendations. That is to say, the analyst creates and models the various databases necessary to accomplish the tasks, ensuring proper functioning and the regular updating of the database.

Define segmentation criteria

The Data Analyst is also responsible for defining segmentation. To do this, they must find relevant data sources that allow them, for example, to define the target of marketing campaigns or identify consumer trends.

Popularize data and make it accessible

For example, extracting and translating business data into statistical data makes it possible to synthesize and popularize information. This data processing allows company managers and teams to analyze the data and use it to improve performance.

Required skills of the Data Analyst

An appetite for numbers

Above all, to be a successful, you must first of all love statistics. Reports, tables, graphs… are the main working tools of the Data Analyst.

Knowledge in data analysis and statistical methodologies

An expert in Data Analysis musts also have mastery of statistical methodologies and associated mathematical models to set up efficient analysis systems.

Proficiency in IT tools, languages ​​and databases

Then, Proficiency in the DB SQL computer language, as well as in web analytics tools and data mining tools is often essential for data analysts.

Extreme rigour

Moreover, as this is an activity requiring the manipulation of encrypted data, the Data Analyst must be endowed with extreme rigour, having developed and analytical mind and fool-proof organization skills. Concentration is also one of the skills needed to be a good analyst. They also must keep abreast of new legal and regulatory regulations for data management.

Also read the differences between Big Data and Business Intelligence

Within the industry

The Data Analyst is a more than buoyant function which is set to keep developing strongly. With the evolution of the IT landscape, companies face exponential growth in the number of data. Therefore, large companies in areas like finance, e-commerce, marketing, industry and medicine are the most likely businesses to recruit in this area.

Salary of the Data Analyst

The average daily rate is between €400 and €800.

Training of the Data Analyst

In conclusion, to become a Data Analyst, college-level training is required. Companies tend to favour candidates who have followed courses in engineering, statistics, or even computer science.

To go higher up in this function then, it is recommended to pursue a specialized master’s program. Several career paths are possible, including as consultant positions such as Data Scientist, Business Intelligence Engineer, Data Engineer or even Chief Data Officer.

Categories
ERP & SAP Job Descriptions

The Different S/4HANA Roles

What are the different S/4HANA roles that IT professionals can choose to take?

As a result of the impending 2030 deadline, businesses still relying on SAP’s older software find themselves in a race against the clock to migrate to S/4HANA; a lengthy and hefty task. But early adoption has been sluggish, and few SAP specialists have had the chance to get hands-on experience with the technology.

Demand for S/4 skills is higher than ever and will only increase in the coming months. Both newcomers and SAP veterans have now the chance to jump on the S/4HANA bandwagon and give a boost to their career.  

Functional vs. Technical roles

Just as with ECC6, there are two main categories of S/4HANA roles: functional and technical. However, these two categories often overlap with one another, and the best specialists have a combination of the two.

Then, functional roles essentially serve as the link between business and solution development, helping organisations design and implement S/4HANA environments. These profiles combine a sound technical understanding of SAP’s ERP suite with domain expertise – having knowledge of, for example, finance or HR. They also possess strong communication and leadership capabilities. Therefore, a functional expert has a strong business background and a very good understanding of business flows and processes. Thus, that leads them to be responsible for customising the ecosystem after the implementation of new flows or after an evolution in the core model.

On the other hand, technical roles, as the name suggests, have more to do with the development (coding), monitoring and running of S/4HANA applications. Their main strength is in IT, and less so in industry knowledge or interpersonal skills. However, that doesn’t mean technical profiles don’t need to be competent in these areas – soft skills are becoming more and more crucial for IT professionals.  

Functional roles

Specialists in functional S/4HANA roles come from a technical background or are at least well-versed in the technical requirements and capabilities of S/4HANA. Then, domain or industry expertise is a must, as they must have a good grasp of all those non-IT-related concepts to design efficient solutions.

Moreover, a great part of the functional specialist’s job is coordinating with business leaders, end-users and all the other roles involved in the SAP project. Consequently, they also must be good communicators and have well-developed project management and organisational skills. 

Also, the specific role within the team mostly depends on the depth of focus and level of seniority. The main functional roles include:    

Business Analyst

Firstly, SAP Business Analysts are responsible for assessing and defining the business case driving S/4HANA implementation. These professionals understand the ins and outs of SAP’s platform, leveraging great business and industry acumen to identify what ERP solutions can be applied to optimise company operations. They also help train end-users in the use of the platform.

They often come from a business background or have extensive experience in the specific industry and practice (e.g. Finance or manufacturing), a skillset they complement with S/4 training and know-how. Others started in IT and have later garnered valuable business and consultancy expertise.  

Application / Module expert

These are very focused business analysts or more technical profiles specialised in a particular S/4HANA module (e.g. Finance, Sales). These subject matter experts can provide advice and implement SAP components or oversee their day-to-day operations — or both. It is a must for module experts to be proficient in the area of business to which their module relates.

A good example of an SAP application expert is the SAP FI/CO consultant or analyst. These professionals are specialists in de Finance and Controlling modules, expertise which they combine with financial wisdom to help companies produce reports and streamline operational costs. 

Solution Architect

As their title suggests, solution architects are the ones designing the S/4HANA environment based on the company’s business needs. They also have a big-picture mentality, which they mix with a deep understanding of SAP tools and other software and hardware tools to devise custom-made ERP systems.

In addition, architects need to be good at communicating their vision and collaborating across the many teams involved in a project, both in technical roles and in more business-related areas.

Project Manager

Somewhat the least technical role of them all, the project manager coordinates the full life-cycle implementation and configuration of S/4HANA projects. Think of them as a sports team coach. The project manager keeps track of project goals and progress while ensuring that every moving part is on the same page.

Moreover, these are individuals with strong leadership and communication skills and that have a knack for problem-solving. They possess a good understanding of the S/4HANA platform and its different modules. In fact, SAP project managers usually have a business background as well as expertise in core modules (e.g. Supply Chain or Finance). Under today’s continuous improvement and delivery (CI/CD) paradigm, project managers must also be proficient in Agile development methodologies.

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Technical roles

These are the developers and specialists responsible for delivering and maintaining the SAP solutions as designed by the functional half of the team. Technical specialists are also often involved in the design phase of a project and can help advice on capabilities or ways of approaching a problem. The best specialists in technical positions tend to have good business and domain knowledge and are able to put themselves in the shoes of the functional specialist.

Technical S/4HANA roles include:   

ABAP Developer

Creates, tests and implements S/4HANA solutions using SAP’s proprietary ABAP language. These are SAP’s hardcore coders, in charge of the platform’s back end and making the application work. They also are, of course, great coders, and they need to possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

The best ABAP developers combine mastery of S/4HANA modules with great creativity to deliver efficient and lean software solutions. They are also fluent in DevOps and Agile development methodologies and work well in CI/CD product cycles. 

SAP Fiori Developer

They are the front-end counterpart of ABAP developers. SAP Fiori is SAP’s advanced user experience (UX) engine. Fiori developers work together with their ABAP piers to develop the visual interface of S/4HANA applications.

In addition, these technical professionals are good coders, but they also possess skills in end-user-related areas like psychology

SAP Basis Administrator

The equivalent of a System Administrator in other platforms, SAP Basis administrators configure and ensure the correct performance and the reliability of the whole S/4 environment. They also have a mix of technical and interpersonal capabilities and do a lot of landscape management and monitoring.

Basis administrators have a deep understanding of the S/4HANA ecosystem and its different modules, but they are also knowledgeable in ABAP, Linux and Java. They also have good collaboration skills, as they need to coordinate with technical colleagues and end-users to keep the system in perfect shape. 

Security Analyst

Moreover, administers and monitors security roles and authorization profiles for S/4 systems. Security analysts can be also considered a more focused version of a basis administrator, combining deep technical knowledge of the SAP environment with a focus on security.

Security analysts are proficient in SAP’s role-based security concepts and Profile Generator. They also need to be able to speak to infrastructure-level security concerns to other, less technical roles within the IT team or business managers.

Data analyst

Lastly, these professionals leverage business intelligence and data management to produce insights that help inform business decisions. They are also experts in data engineering and databases, able to create high and low-level data product designs based on business and technology requirements. Moreover, data analysts are experts in SAP HANA in-memory database, and they need fluency in Agile methodologies to be able to collaborate effectively with the rest of the technical team. Additionally, the best data analysts possess good business and domain acumen, which lets them reach deeper and more actionable insights and better communicate with their business peers.

Want to make the most of S/4HANA’s career potential? Also Check our comprehensive S/4HANA Careers Guide.


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