Hiring for ERP Rollouts? Why You Need More Than Just Tech Credentials
When a company invests in an ERP rollout, the focus is often on technology. Which platform should we choose? Which modules do we need? How quickly can we go live?
But while technology is central to success, it is not the full picture. The people you bring on board can make or break an ERP project. And it is not just about technical ability.
ERP Projects Are About People as Much as Systems
ERP systems affect almost every part of a business. They change how finance teams report, how supply chains operate, and how employees across departments access data.
That level of change can be unsettling. It requires clear communication, collaboration and trust between technical specialists, business users and leadership.
This is why successful ERP professionals are not just experts in SAP, Oracle, or NetSuite. They are also skilled communicators who can translate technical language into practical business impact.
What to Look For Beyond Technical Skill
When hiring for an ERP rollout, look for individuals who can combine technical knowledge with commercial understanding and interpersonal awareness.
Here are some traits that make a difference:
1. Stakeholder Management Skills
The best ERP professionals can bring different departments together. They know how to listen, align expectations and influence without alienating anyone.
2. Business Process Understanding
Technical skills alone do not guarantee success. A strong grasp of how the business actually works ensures the system is configured to support real needs, not just theoretical ones.
3. Adaptability and Resilience
ERP projects often change direction mid-stream. Contractors and permanent staff who stay calm under pressure and adapt quickly will keep the rollout on track.
4. Communication and Training Ability
Rolling out a system is only part of the challenge. Ensuring people use it properly is just as important. Candidates who can train, explain and simplify complex processes are invaluable.
5. Cultural Fit and Team Alignment
ERP projects require close collaboration between internal and external teams. A good cultural fit helps maintain trust, accountability and momentum through to go-live.
Why This Matters for Employers
Many ERP implementations struggle not because the technology is wrong, but because the human side was underestimated. The right people will balance technical execution with empathy, communication and business insight.
When we recruit for ERP projects at Prospectus, we look beyond the CV. We assess how candidates manage change, handle pressure and work across silos. These are the qualities that make ERP rollouts smoother and more successful.
Final Thought
The next time you review an ERP candidate, look beyond certifications and product lists. Ask how they have influenced stakeholders, handled setbacks and delivered outcomes that lasted.
Because in ERP, the best technical skills mean very little without the people skills to bring them to life.
