Global Manufacturer’s S/4HANA Rollout with SAP Recruitment and Payroll Solutions

Accelerating Transformation: How Whitehall Delivered SAP Talent for a Complex Global Rollout

Key Achievements

• 40% Cost Savings: Reduced project expenses by sourcing SAP talent strategically, minimising reliance on higher-cost Systems Integrator (SI) resources.
• 9-Year Partnership: A trusted recruitment partner providing SAP expertise and payroll solutions, ensuring consistent project success.
• 24-Hour Placements: Delivered critical SAP contract roles in as little as one day to maintain project momentum.
• Multiple Successful Go-Lives: Supported the client in meeting ambitious project timelines with high-quality SAP talent.

Overview

A global manufacturer headquartered in the UK embarked on a large-scale S/4HANA transformation to modernise business processes and technology. To ensure success, they required a range of specialised SAP professionals to fill critical gaps alongside their Systems Integrator.

The client partnered with Whitehall to:

• Secure high-calibre SAP professionals for both contract and permanent roles.
• Achieve cost savings without compromising quality.
• Establish a stable team for post-go-live support.

Project Roadblocks

The client faced significant challenges in executing their S/4HANA rollout:

• Specialised Talent Shortage: The program required Business Analysts, Functional and Technical Consultants, and senior Project Managers with niche expertise.
• Evolving Role Requirements: The need to transition roles from contract during implementation to permanent for post-go-live support.
• Time Pressure: Tight deadlines jeopardised project timelines without swift recruitment solutions.

Without a recruitment partner, the client struggled to source talent quickly and effectively, putting the project’s success at risk.

Our Strategic Approach

Whitehall worked closely with the client to design a tailored recruitment strategy that addressed their unique requirements and project goals. Key elements included:

Collaborative Planning

• Partnered with the client to understand the scope of the project and role-specific needs.
• Established a clear roadmap for contract and permanent placements.

Advanced Talent Sourcing

• Leveraged Whitehall’s CRM, extensive SAP network, and knowledge-sharing systems to identify top candidates.
• Utilised job boards, referrals, and LinkedIn Recruiter to build a robust talent pipeline.

Fast and Flexible Delivery

• Delivered candidates for critical contract roles within 24 hours.
• Filled complex roles, such as senior Project Managers and Program Managers, within 1–2 weeks.

Comprehensive Coverage

• Placed a wide variety of professionals, including Business Analysts, Functional and Technical Consultants, PMOs, Trainers, and senior leaders.
• Ensured alignment with the client’s technical and cultural requirements.

Delivering Results

Whitehall’s involvement delivered tangible benefits:

• Successful Go-Lives: Enabled the client to meet key project milestones and execute multiple successful go-lives.
• Cost Savings: Reduced average consultant costs by 40% compared to SI rates, significantly lowering overall project expenses.
• Stable Support: Established a business-as-usual (BAU) team for ongoing post-implementation support.
• Enduring Partnership: Built a trusted, long-term relationship with the client, who continues to rely on Whitehall for SAP recruitment and payroll solutions.

A Trusted Partnership

Nine years into the partnership, Whitehall remains the client’s preferred SAP recruitment provider. By consistently delivering high-quality talent and offering proactive market insights, Whitehall has become an integral part of the client’s success.

The client’s confidence in Whitehall’s capabilities is reflected in their willingness to refer our services to others, further solidifying the partnership’s value.

Final Thoughts

Whitehall’s expertise and strategic approach have been instrumental in supporting the client’s complex S/4HANA transformation. By addressing critical talent gaps, meeting tight deadlines, and achieving significant cost savings, we delivered a measurable impact that continues to benefit the client’s operations.

If your organisation faces similar challenges in SAP recruitment, we’d be delighted to support your transformation journey.

Contact us to learn how Whitehall can help you achieve your SAP project goals.