Top In-Demand Skills for SAP Consultants

The job of an SAP consultant is to provide advice and expertise on software integrations and implementations, develop and integrate technical specifications, and assess existing SAP solutions systems and software to meet the needs of the client. They ensure that the workflows for the computer system are optimized and work well for the end-users. 

To become a successful SAP consultant, you need a combination of technical, functional, and interpersonal skills. The specific skills required may vary depending on the SAP module you specialize in (e.g., SAP Finance, SAP HR, SAP Supply Chain, etc.), but in this piece, we outline some essential skills that are generally needed and growing in demand for any SAP consultant.

SAP Application Knowledge

To get a job in this field, you will need extensive technical knowledge about SAP’s solutions and services. A skilled SAP consultant should be familiar with the software’s features to set up and alter configurations to meet the company’s needs. Below are a few of the most in-demand:  

SAP ABAP

ABAP is by far the most important SAP programming skill – followed by SAP Fiori and SAPUI5. Basic ABAP skills include using basic ABAP statements, analyzing programs with the ABAP debugger, or calling function modules. As companies increasingly rely on SAP software to manage their operations, the demand for skilled SAP ABAP developers has skyrocketed. 

SAP Business Technology Platform (BTP)

SAP Business Technology Platform (SAP BTP) brings together data and analytics, artificial intelligence, application development, automation, and integration in one, unified cloud environment. As more companies aim to pursue digital transformation while preserving their core system, finding an SAP consultant with knowledge in or experience with this solution is a must. 

SAP S/4HANA

SAP S/4HANA is a newer version of SAP’s ERP system, and it is in high demand due to its ability to handle complex business processes and real-time data analytics. Organizations use SAP S/4HANA to integrate and manage business functions – such as finance, human resources, procurement, sales, manufacturing and service – in real time. S/4HANA can help your business drive growth across the board, but implementing and maintaining the complex solution requires specialized knowledge and expertise.

SAP Financial Accounting (FI) and SAP Controlling (CO)

SAP FICO is a core functional module used for external and internal financial reporting, enabling businesses to record and manage their transactional financial data more efficiently. As companies grow and need better resources to monitor and manage their financial data, this SAP skill is increasingly growing in demand. 

SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC)

SAC is a cloud visualization tool that combines Business Intelligence (BI), predictive analysis, and planning functionalities into one intuitive, accessible user interface to enable faster, better decision-making for businesses. Knowledge in this particular solution is an increasingly important skill for SAP consultants to have as data and analytics are critical to help companies put their data to work, enabling them to realize new opportunities and build business models. 

SAP Sales and Distribution (SD)

SAP SD is a core functional module that allows organizations to store and manage customer- or product-related data – such as sales orders, deliveries, pricing, shipping, billing, invoicing, and more – to streamline sales processes and provide a seamless customer experience. A consultant must support the implementation of SAP SD with an analysis of the requirements of the business, including workshops and mapping to develop SAP SD and ensure it meets the needs of the organization. 

Business Process Knowledge

A strong understanding of business processes and the ability to map these processes into SAP functionality is a highly needed skill in SAP consulting.  The ability to configure SAP systems according to client needs and customize functionalities to meet specific requirements is crucial to provide effective solutions to clients’ changing business needs.   

Problem-Solving Skills

SAP consultants often face complex issues that require analytical and problem-solving abilities to identify and resolve problems efficiently. As the market changes and innovations continue to emerge, SAP products and solutions will also keep evolving, requiring constant learning and adaptation to change. Former systems and products will become obsolete, and new ones will take over, so it is essential to stay on top of innovations and open to learning these new processes. 

Technical Communication

Excellent communication skills are essential for SAP consultants to understand client requirements, explain technical concepts, and collaborate effectively with team members and stakeholders. The ability to thoroughly understand and break down technical concepts for different audiences is a crucial skill in this industry. Articulating your SAP consulting knowledge to others and providing beginner training will help your team gain knowledge and potentially earn you a pay raise. 

Finding the Right SAP Job

These are only a few examples of SAP skills that are in high demand with an increasing number of companies seeking employees with the necessary skills. By improving your portfolio of SAP skills, you can increase your earning potential and employability with some of the world’s leading companies. Additionally, obtaining relevant SAP certifications can validate your skills and boost your credibility as an SAP consultant. 

When it comes to finding an SAP consultant for your team, the decision depends on the specific needs and requirements of the project, as well as the business’s budget, availability, and commitment. Obtaining the necessary skills will ensure your success in reaching your tech career goals and open your options in the SAP world. For any questions related to SAP Staffing and Recruiting, reach out to our team of experts at BCTG. 

Contact us to learn more about partnering with BCTG here.  

Contributions from Julia Hoffman