SAP S/4 HANA Program Management: what we learned in Amsterdam

The evening was about running SAP S/4HANA programs in practice: how to approach complex transformations from the first setup to go-live. The speakers covered the design and build phases, the different dynamics of roll-outs and carve-outs, and the challenges that come up in almost every program.

The key message: SAP S/4HANA transformations succeed when you combine solid theory with an understanding of the unwritten rules, and when you learn from what has actually happened at other clients.

The meetup was aimed at Program and Project Managers, Senior Application and Enterprise Architects, C-level executives and anyone responsible for driving a complex SAP transformation.

Session 1: Mastering SAP S/4HANA transformations – theory and dynamics of different approaches

The first session laid the foundation. Attendees took a closer look at the challenges and unwritten rules that shape SAP S/4HANA programs, and at why one approach is not like another. A template build deployment calls for a different way of steering than a carve-out project, and recognising those differences early is essential to managing the transformation well.

Topics covered:

• The theory, challenges and unwritten rules of SAP S/4HANA programs
• The different dynamics of template build deployments and carve-outs
• Insights from reference literature on SAP program management

Session 2: Navigating SAP S/4HANA programs – insights from real client cases

The second session moved from theory to practice. Using real client cases, the speakers showed how to organise and approach an SAP S/4HANA transition, and how to keep a program on track when unexpected events hit.

Topics covered:

• How to set up an SAP S/4HANA transformation
• How to run the design phase versus the build phase
• How to overcome unexpected events, illustrated with real client cases

Mastering SAP S/4HANA Transformations: Theory and Dynamics of Different Approaches 

In this session, you’ll discover the challenges and unwritten rules of SAP S/4HANA programs. Learn how to navigate the unique dynamics of template deployments versus carve-out projects, and gain insights to effectively manage these complex transformations. 

Some of the things you’ll learn 

• Theory, challenges and unwritten rules 

• Different dynamics of template build deployments and carve-outs 

• Reference literature insights 

Navigating SAP S/4HANA Programs: Insights from Real Client Cases 

In this session you’ll gain valuable insights from client cases on SAP S/4HANA programs. Together we’ll explore the context how to organise and approach a transition, and learn how to overcome unexpected events to ensure success in your transformation journey. 

Some of the things you’ll learn 

• How to set-up a SAP S/4HANA transformation  

• How to run design vs build phase 

• Overcome unexpected events (real client cases) 

René Stevens – Program Manager, Tarlunt Consulting Group
René is a seasoned program manager with extensive experience leading complex business/IT transformations and managing project teams of 50 to 600 people. He combines deep expertise in program management and business consultancy with a strong functional and technical ERP/SAP background.

He started his career at global customer organisations, optimising operations and logistics, before moving into consultancy. René co-developed predictive models and approaches for ERP/SAP implementations and was accountable for several years for all ERP/SAP implementations at a large Dutch systems integrator. Since 2016 he has been with Tarlunt Consulting Group, specialising in organising and leading digital (SAP) transformations. Clients he has worked with include AkzoNobel, Cargill, Corbion, Philips, Brenntag, TomTom, Avebe and LambWeston.

Hans Nijdeken – Program Manager, Tarlunt Consulting Group
Hans is an expert in leading teams to deliver successful transformation programs. He spent more than 20 years in sales and supply chain operations on the business side and in consulting for a global systems integrator. Since 2010 he has worked as an independent professional, leading multicultural teams across the globe.

His focus is SAP IT leadership and business transformation management in global companies: roles that require vision, drive and strong business integration. Hans also has a proven track record in turnaround management, bringing complex projects back on track within a short time frame. He leads SAP programs for both end clients (Global Fortune 500) and system integrators, with long-term partnerships including Heineken, PepsiCo, Wavin, SKF Sweden, LyondellBasell, AkzoNobel and Cargill.