Moving complete teams: An AMS and SAP HCM Success Story

Aside from hiring top-tier individuals we also have a track record of migrating ready-made teams.

Our latest project required us to transition an AMS (Application Management Services) and SAP HCM (Human Capital Management) Implementation team from a third-party implementation partner to a large consultancy, effectively mirroring an M&A (merger and acquisition) process but without the huge costs usually associated with Acquisitions.

The initial team, consisting of 14 experienced professionals, brought with them an established ECP Template (Employee Central Payroll Template), which had been a foundational tool in previous SAP HCM implementations. 

The move aimed to leverage the expertise of this specialised team within the larger consultancy, integrating them into the new company's broader client portfolio.

Key steps in the process included: 

1. Identifying the core team to move: The first step involved identifying the core HCM team within an implementation partner, including its leader. This was crucial for ensuring the right people—those with the specific skills and experience were acquired. Once the core team was identified, discussions were initiated to outline the advantages of moving together, emphasising continuity, career growth, and the opportunity to scale their expertise within a larger, more dynamic consultancy environment. In addition to the core team we also identified an number of external candidates to supplement the team and add further depth to the skill level. 

   
   

2. Assessing the right opportunity: A number of HCM practices within large consultancies were vying to bring on this skilled, pre-existing team with a proven ECP Template. The team had a unique position in that it was ready to deliver end-to-end SAP HCM and AMS services with a strong foundation in payroll solutions and business process expertise. 

   
   

3. Team Integration and Onboarding: Once the right consultancy was identified, the team were seamlessly integrated into the consultancy’s existing SAP HCM practice. This process involved aligning team members with new corporate structures, processes, and operational models while maintaining continuity in ongoing client projects. 

   
   

4. Knowledge Transfer: The team transferred proprietary knowledge, including the ECP Template, to ensure the new consultancy could continue supporting clients with the same level of expertise and efficiency. This included a deep dive into the template's customisation and configuration for future SAP HCM projects. 

   
   

5. Long-Term Strategic Goals: The move positioned the new consultancy to expand its SAP HCM offerings, utilizing the experienced team to drive future growth, both in terms of service delivery and new business acquisition. By adding a proven ECP Template, the consultancy aimed to enhance its competitive edge in the SAP HCM market. 

   
   

In summary, the transition of the AMS and SAP HCM team was a strategic move that combined talent, technology (the ECP Template), and some client relationships, ensuring continuity while positioning the new consultancy for long-term success in the HCM space. 

If you are interested in recruiting ready-made teams reach out to Stuart: