ERP Implementation Manager
When a business is upgrading, installing, operating, testing or changing its enterprise resource planning software, it’s vital that the whole process is managed from a centralised position to ensure the implementation goes smoothly, is project managed and has the full understanding of the affected parties. The ERP implementation manager (often called an ERP implementation lead) is in charge of overseeing the process, hiring the relevant technical and training resources, and monitoring it once it’s up and running.
Since such systems are inevitably complex, especially over large national or multinational operations, there will be a good deal of delegation of tasks to experts in their specific fields, and reporting problems, progress and results to the senior management in the organisation. The role usually effectively becomes a project management task, although that doesn’t mean that specific project managers can’t be brought in to plan the hour-to-hour implementation milestones – as manager, you’ll just have overall responsibility for the delivery of the implementation to the standard expected from your employer.
The skills required
Most importantly, you’ll need to know ERPs inside out – their capabilities, limitations and differences – and you’ll often find yourself explaining these qualities to those above and below you in the hierarchy. Since there are dozens of providers, from household names like Sage, Microsoft, Oracle and SAP right down to bespoke solutions designed for specific organisations, ERP implementation manager candidates with a wide range of experience are often sought, especially if the company is switching from one system to another.
As with all management roles, communication is key. Here, you’ll be dealing with some very technical understanding of the system, but you’ll also need to get under the skin of the company and its procurement and purchasing structures to fully understand how best to implement their solution. This potentially complex information needs to be absorbed and relayed from and to a diverse range of staff and and management in clear, understandable language.
ERP Implementation Manager Jobs in Exeter
Situated in Devon, Exeter is a historic city on the River Exe. It is known as being one of the most profitable locations to base a business, meaning there are many opportunities for those seeking ERP Implementation Manager roles.
People have been living in this area for thousands of years - and the easily navigable river meant that there was a thriving trade with the Mediterranean as far back as 250 BC.
During the Middle Ages, Exeter had one of the largest markets in the south-west and it was also known for its annual fairs, which continued until the 16th century.
At the dawn of the Industrial Revolution, Exeter's industry was mainly based on agricultural products. Water power was used to some degree, but the city was too far from a source of coal to make the most of steam power.
The development of the canal network did, however, help to boost Exeter's prominence, and the Bristol and Exeter Railway opened in 1844, further building the local economy.
Today, Exeter is a bustling city with plenty of retail space, particularly in the Princesshay Shopping Centre. It is also home to a number of big employers, with a several companies employing 1,000 people or more - such as British Telecom, EDF and Flybe.
In 2004, the Met Office relocated to Exeter and this organisation is now one of the largest employers in the region, along with Devon County Council and the University of Exeter. Other companies with a significant presence include Tesco, the Highways Agency and Alcoa Howmet.
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ERP implementation manager roles at Cast UK
When implementing or upgrading an ERP solution across a company, nothing can be left to chance – the solution has to work from day one, with staff trained, the technical support and maintenance teams in place and the solution itself firing on all cylinders. Companies need to find the right person to manage this.
If you’re trying to find the perfect ERP implementation lead for your business, you’ve come to the right place. Cast UK has an enviable supply of talent in procurement and purchasing who are looking to fill your vacancy. Call 0333 121 3345 to get the ball rolling.
Are you a qualified and experienced ERP implementation manager? Employers are looking for your talents now – please register so we can connect.
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