SAP Finance Director

IntroductionAt IBM, work is more than a job - it's a calling: To build. To design. To code. To consult. To think along with clients and sell. To make markets. To invent. To collaborate. Not just to do something better, but to attempt things you've never thought possible. Are you ready to lead in this new era of technology and solve some of the world's most challenging problems? If so, lets talk.Your Role And ResponsibilitiesThe SAP Finance Director is responsible for leading the strategic direction, implementation, and optimization of SAP Finance solutions (primarily SAP S/4HANA Finance and FICO). This role partners closely with Finance, IT, and executive leadership to drive financial transformation initiatives, ensure system integrity, and deliver scalable, compliant financial processes.Key ResponsibilitiesLeadership & Strategy Define and execute the SAP Finance roadmap aligned with business strategy and financial transformation goals Lead cross-functional teams including Finance, IT, and external partners Act as a trusted advisor to CFO, Finance leadership, and senior executivesSAP Finance Management Oversee implementation and optimization of SAP Finance modules (FI, CO, GL, AP, AR, Asset Accounting) Drive S/4HANA Finance transformations, upgrades, and migrations Ensure integration with other SAP modules (MM, SD, PP, etc.) and third-party systemsFinancial Process Optimization Streamline financial processes such as record-to-report, procure-to-pay, and order-to-cash Enhance reporting, planning, and forecasting capabilities through SAP tools and analytics Champion automation, standardization, and continuous improvement initiativesGovernance & Compliance Ensure compliance with financial regulations (SOX, GAAP/IFRS) and internal controls Maintain data integrity, audit readiness, and system security Collaborate with internal audit and risk management teamsStakeholder Management Partner with Finance leaders to translate business requirements into technical solutions Manage relationships with external vendors, system integrators, and consultants Communicate project status, risks, and outcomes to executive stakeholdersPeople Leadership Build and lead high-performing SAP Finance and functional teams Mentor and develop talent across Finance and IT functions Drive a culture of innovation, accountability, and collaborationQualificationsEducation Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Information Systems, or related field MBA, CPA, or equivalent preferredExperience 12+ years of experience in Finance, SAP consulting, or enterprise systems 7+ years of experience leading SAP Finance (FICO/S/4HANA) initiatives Proven track record in large-scale SAP implementations or digital transformations Experience working in global, matrixed organizationsTechnical Skills Deep expertise in SAP Finance modules (FI/CO, S/4HANA Finance) Strong understanding of financial processes and accounting principles Experience with SAP Analytics (e.g., SAC, BW/4HANA) is a plus Familiarity with integration technologies, data governance, and cloud platformsLeadership Competencies Strategic thinking and business acumen Strong communication and executive presence Change management and transformation leadership Problem-solving and decision-making skillsPreferred Qualifications SAP certification(s) in Finance or S/4HANA Experience with global rollouts or multi-country implementations Background in manufacturing, retail, or other complex operating environmentsWork Environment Hybrid or remote flexibility depending on company policy Occasional travel required for project oversight and stakeholder engagementRequired Technical And Professional Expertise12+ years of experience in Finance, SAP consulting, or enterprise systems 7+ years of experience leading SAP Finance (FICO/S/4HANA) initiativesPreferred Technical And Professional Experience SAP Industry Solutions Knowledge: Experience with industry-specific SAP solutions and ability to apply this knowledge to design and configure SAP FIN FI solutions that meet client needs. Advanced Techno-Functional Skills: Deep understanding of techno-functional solution expertise, with the ability to effectively integrate packaged technology solutions and achieve client expectations. Business Process Expertise: Experience with business process analysis and design, with the ability to understand and analyze business requirements to design and configure solutions that meet client expectations.