At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead SAP Finance and Procurement systems, driving innovation and continuous improvement.
- Company: Join the UK's largest ports operator, transforming technology solutions.
- Benefits: Diverse culture, career progression, and a focus on safety.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Strong SAP background and leadership skills required.
- Other info: Opportunity to mentor a multi-location team and manage complex projects.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We’re the UK’s largest ports operator with a network of 21 ports around Britain. We handle around one quarter of the UK’s seaborne trade and contribute £7.5 billion to our economy every year. It’s a story we’re proud of but it doesn’t end there. We’re transforming our business and embracing the future. We offer a vast range of roles spanning the UK, all rooted in a culture that welcomes diversity, fosters talent, encourages internal movement and progression, and places safety as our number one priority.
At ABP, we are transforming the way we deliver technology solutions across our business. Our IT Solutions Delivery team is at the heart of this change — driving innovation, standardisation, and continuous improvement. We are now seeking an experienced SAP Finance Procurement Functional Lead to take ownership of our central SAP Finance and Procurement systems and lead a high-performing functional team.
The Role
As the SAP Finance Procurement Functional Lead, you will be responsible for ensuring that ABP’s SAP Finance (RTR) and Source-to-Pay (S2P) solutions are fit for purpose, aligned with best practice, and continually evolving to meet business needs. You will act as both architect and team lead — guiding the business on SAP best practice, shaping our solution roadmap, and managing a team of SAP experts. Working closely with our Finance and Procurement business teams, you’ll drive continuous improvement, champion agile delivery, and ensure that our systems deliver tangible business value.
Key Responsibilities
- Own and manage the SAP Finance, Controlling, Concur and Procurement solution areas.
- Build strong relationships with business stakeholders, Business Process Owners, and Super Users.
- Lead the design, roadmap, and delivery of change initiatives within Finance and Procurement systems.
- Oversee CR (Change Request) management, impact assessments, and resource allocation.
- Ensure all designs align with architecture principles, SAP best practices, and ABP’s strategic goals.
- Partner with delivery leads to plan, track, and report on delivery performance.
- Lead, develop, and mentor a multi-location team of SAP specialists.
- Manage risk, capacity, and vendor relationships across the solution area.
- Champion continuous improvement and agile methodologies.
About You
You’ll be a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of SAP and a proven ability to manage delivery teams in complex, integrated environments. You’ll combine strong technical insight with excellent stakeholder management and leadership skills.
Essential Skills & Experience
- Strong SAP functional background across Finance (FICO), Procurement, Inventory Management, VIM, and Concur.
- Broad understanding of SAP solution architecture and integration across business functions.
- Proven experience managing SAP delivery and support teams across multiple locations.
- Demonstrable success in delivering complex SAP projects.
- Deep knowledge of Agile, Waterfall, and ITIL Service Management processes.
- Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.
- Ability to manage competing priorities and deliver under pressure.
- Experience working with third-party vendors and service providers.
Desirable
- Experience with SAP EPPM (PS, CPM, PPM), OpenText, REFX, BPC, SAC, and BW.
- Exposure to SAP S/4HANA.
- Background in large, complex organisations (Fortune experience desirable).
- Degree in IT or a related discipline.
SAP Finance Procurement Functional Lead in London employer: Associated British Ports
Contact Detail:
Associated British Ports Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SAP Finance Procurement Functional Lead in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those already working at ABP. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your SAP knowledge. Be ready to discuss how you've tackled challenges in finance and procurement before. Show them you're the expert they need!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just focus on your technical skills; highlight your leadership and stakeholder management experience too. They want someone who can lead a team and build strong relationships.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the ABP family.
We think you need these skills to ace SAP Finance Procurement Functional Lead in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the SAP Finance Procurement Functional Lead role. Highlight your relevant experience in SAP, especially in Finance and Procurement, and showcase any leadership roles you've had. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you the perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention your understanding of agile methodologies and stakeholder management, as these are key for us.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements rather than just listing duties. Use metrics where possible to demonstrate your impact, like successful project deliveries or improvements in team performance. We love seeing tangible results!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team at ABP!
How to prepare for a job interview at Associated British Ports
✨Know Your SAP Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your SAP knowledge, especially in Finance and Procurement. Be ready to discuss specific modules like FICO, VIM, and Concur, and how they integrate with other business functions. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the systems but can also lead and mentor a team effectively.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in complex environments. Think about times when you managed competing priorities or delivered under pressure. Highlight your experience in mentoring and developing team members, as this role requires strong leadership capabilities.
✨Understand Their Business Needs
Research ABP and its operations. Understand their strategic goals and how SAP solutions can drive value for them. Be ready to discuss how you would align SAP best practices with their business needs and contribute to their transformation journey.
✨Communicate Effectively
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Since stakeholder management is key in this role, prepare to demonstrate your communication skills through examples of how you've built relationships with business stakeholders and super users in the past.