Role Overview :

We are seeking an experienced SAP Project Manager to lead the end-to-end implementation of SAP Public Cloud solutions for a leading Indian university. The role requires strong expertise in managing large-scale SAP transformation programs, particularly cloud-based ERP implementations, along with stakeholder management in academic environments.

Key Responsibilities :

Project Leadership & Delivery :

- Lead the complete lifecycle of SAP Public Cloud implementation (RISE with SAP / S/4HANA Public Cloud).

- Define project scope, objectives, timelines, and deliverables aligned with university business goals.

- Ensure successful execution across phases : discovery, fit-gap, design, build, testing, deployment, and hypercare.

- Manage project governance, risk mitigation, and issue resolution.

Stakeholder Management :

- Act as the primary interface between university leadership, functional teams, and implementation partners.

- Collaborate with academic, administrative, finance, HR, and IT departments.

- Conduct steering committee meetings and provide regular progress reports.

Program & Resource Management :

- Manage cross-functional SAP teams (functional, technical, Basis, security, integration).

- Coordinate with vendors, SI partners, and third-party consultants.

- Drive resource planning, budgeting, and cost control.

SAP Public Cloud Expertise :

- Ensure best practices for SAP S/4HANA Public Cloud adoption.

- Drive fit-to-standard approach minimizing customizations.

- Oversee integrations with third-party systems (e.g., LMS, student systems).

Quality & Compliance :

- Ensure adherence to SAP Activate methodology.

- Govern testing cycles (SIT, UAT) and ensure quality deliverables.

- Manage data migration, security, and compliance requirements.

Change Management & Adoption :

- Lead organizational change management initiatives.

- Drive training programs and end-user adoption across university departments.

Required Skills & Qualifications :

Experience :

- 10 - 12 years of overall experience with at least 5+ years in SAP project/program management.

- Proven track record in full-cycle SAP implementation projects, preferably S/4HANA Public Cloud.

- Experience in education sector / public sector implementations is highly desirable.

Technical & Functional Knowledge :

- Strong understanding of SAP modules like Finance (FICO), Procurement (MM), HR (SuccessFactors), and Student Lifecycle Management (preferred).

- Knowledge of SAP Cloud architecture, integration (API, CPI), and SaaS deployments.

- Familiarity with Agile / hybrid methodologies.

Project Management Skills :

- Expertise in project planning, scheduling, financial tracking, and risk management.

- Hands-on experience with SAP Activate methodology.

- Strong documentation and governance skills.

Soft Skills :

- Excellent stakeholder communication and presentation skills.

- Strong leadership and team management abilities.

- Ability to work in a multi-stakeholder academic environment.

Educational Qualifications :

- Bachelor's degree in Engineering / Technology / Computer Science or related field.

- MBA or relevant postgraduate degree preferred.

- SAP Certification (S/4HANA / Project Management) and/or PMP / PRINCE2 certification is an advantage.

Preferred Experience :

- Experience working with Indian universities, higher education institutions, or government bodies.

- Exposure to large digital transformation initiatives.

- Experience in cloud ERP adoption programs.

Key Success Metrics :

- On-time, on-budget delivery of SAP Public Cloud implementation.

- User adoption and satisfaction levels.

- System stability post go-live.

- Alignment with university digital transformation goals.