SAP stands for Systems Applications and Products in Data processing. The software was founded in 1972 by Wellenreuther, Hopp, Hector, Plattner, and Tschira. SAP is ERP or Enterprise Resource Planning software. These days companies hire employees specifically to work on SAP systems as this area requires specific knowledge and training. There is a multitude of jobs within SAP itself. Hence this has created a need for career or job hierarchy.
The different levels of the hierarchy are based on role and responsibilities. The ones at the top of the pyramid have the highest responsibility, and those at the bottom have lesser knowledge, skills, and experience. The levels in the pyramid start from interns, who get part payment and goes all the up to the partners, who own a part of the company.
Here we have summarized the hierarchy from bottom to the top.
Interns
The lowermost position or the bottom of the pyramid is that of an intern. Any new graduate or a graduate student looking for some experience in the filed joins as an intern. The internships are usually taken during summer breaks or right after graduation.
Analysts
They are generally fresh SAP product technicians. They take up entry-level duties. Consultants or undergraduates usually occupy this position.
Consultants
After 2 to 3 years of experience, one is promoted to the position of a consultant. He/she works directly under a senior consultant.
Senior Consultants
Senior consultants of a firm occupy the next position in the pyramid of SAP career hierarchy. Individuals who possess about four to seven years of experience are promoted to this position. They must have the experience and ability to manage functional projects sub-teams. Senior consultants also have the authority to sell smaller-scale client work.
Managers
Being a manager is an important task. Thus to become one, an individual is expected to have at least seven years of experience working in the same field. They are expected to lead small teams. Managers also act as functional heads of small project teams. The responsibilities include overseeing the functions of the consultants, selling client engagements, obtaining team members, managing project budgets and overseeing team deliverables, etc.
Senior Manager
The next position in the SAP hierarchy and just one below the highest position is that of a senior manager. They are responsible for leading large project teams and are hence, therefore, referred to as project managers. Senior managers work in close contact with the partners. At times they may also lead sales pursuits. They are highly experienced and command good respect from everyone at the firm.
Partners and Principal
At the topmost position of the SAP, hierarchy pyramid is the partners or shareholders of the SAP Company. At times alternative titles such as Principal and Directors etc. are used. These individuals principal focus is on selling client engagements. Every client project consists of PPD or Partners, Principal, and Director.
Using Stechies, you find the best way to place yourself in the hierarchy and eventually climb your way to the top. Whatever your starting position may be there is always room for improvement. For more details on SAP, visit stechies website.
