Risk Controlling in a global SAP S/4 HANA program

Identification and assessment of risks in a large global SAP programme of an industrial engineering group aiming to replace around 60 existing ERP systems with a harmonized S4/HANA. The project included continuous risk monitoring and advisory for the CIO and CFO as well as consolidated risk reporting for key stakeholders.

Overview

  • Public limited company in industrial manufacturing and production
  • Number of employees: approx. 18,700
  • Project duration: four years, from April 2020 to March 2024
  • Core team: no direct core team, but exclusively in an advisory function at C-level
  • People affected: More than 250 people were directly affected by the changes

The challenge

The company was faced with the challenge of identifying and assessing the risks involved in replacing numerous ERP systems globally with a standardised S4/HANA system. This required an independent advisory body to continuously monitor the risks and advise the management at C-level. In addition, a deep and continuous penetration, communication and presence in and with the project stakeholders across all levels was necessary.

Our approach

Our team assumed responsibility for risk management, including operational monitoring and advising the program management:

  • Risk controlling and C-level risk advisory: Perform risk monitoring and advisory services for the CIO and CFO to ensure a neutral and comprehensive assessment of risks.
  • Operational risk monitoring and guidance: Continuous monitoring of risks and guidance for program management in order to identify and mitigate potential risks at an early stage.
  • Consolidated risk reporting: Regular reporting and communication of risks to key stakeholders and the Steering Committee.

Our added value

The implementation of the project led to significant improvements and clear results:

  • Early risk identification: Proactive recognition of potential risks, current obstacles and success accelerators within the program.
  • Structured reflection: Regular structured reflection with project and work area managers to optimise their delivery items, planning and communication.
  • Initiation of strategic decisions: Initiation of strategic decisions and optimisation measures for the program.
  • Escalation of risks: Escalation of identified risks for immediate response.
  • Continuous transparency: Ensuring continuous transparency about the progress of the program.

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