You can’t build a modern business on spaghetti systems. That’s why ERP transformations are back on the boardroom agenda. And this time, leaders know they can’t afford to get it wrong.
Whether you’re migrating from an on-prem monolith, consolidating finance systems after a merger, or re-architecting operations around a cloud-native ERP, one thing is constant: success comes down to the people on the project.
Here’s a practical breakdown of the core in-demand roles every CIO or digital leader should consider when assembling their ERP A-team.
- Strategic Leaders Who Set the Tone
Executive Sponsor
The most underrated role — and one of the most powerful. A strong sponsor clears the runway, gets executive buy-in, and keeps the ERP tied to broader business goals. Think of them as the connector between the boardroom and the project room. Without their active involvement, decisions stall and momentum fizzles.
Project Manager
This is your conductor. The Project Manager keeps timelines tight, people focused, and the chaos to a minimum. They’re the voice of accountability and the first person you call when things veer off course. Great ones don’t just manage tasks. They manage energy.
Change Management Specialist / Team
Every ERP transformation is a people transformation. That’s where change specialists shine. They train users, handle communications, and make sure no one’s left behind. Often they sit within HR or L&D, and often they’re the unsung heroes of adoption success.
- Translators Between Business and Tech
ERP Consultant
Whether it’s SAP, Oracle, or Microsoft Dynamics, these consultants know how to map messy real-world processes into structured systems. They help configure the tool to fit your workflows, not the other way around.
Business Analyst
If your ERP transformation had a conscience, this would be it. Business Analysts are the ones who translate what users want into what developers can build. They surface needs, map processes, and keep both tech and business teams grounded in reality.
- Technical Experts Who Make It All Work
Database Administrator (DBA)
The keeper of your data. The DBA ensures your legacy data safely makes it into the new system — clean, complete, and compliant. One missed field can wreak havoc, so this role is all about precision.
System & Network Specialists
Without the right infrastructure, even the best ERP won’t run properly. These roles ensure the servers, networks, and connectivity are humming before go-live. Bonus points if they know how to troubleshoot under pressure.
Cloud ERP Specialist
As more orgs shift to SaaS-based platforms, Cloud ERP specialists are now critical. They manage cloud migrations, optimise hosting environments, and unlock the performance and scalability benefits that modern systems promise.
- Developers Who Tailor the Experience
ABAP / .NET / Java / JavaScript Developers
ERP platforms rarely work straight out of the box. Whether it’s building custom modules, integrations, or front-end enhancements, these developers fine-tune the system to fit your organisation.
- Quality and Support Roles That Safeguard the Outcome
Quality Assurance (QA) Specialist
Before go-live, these are the people who break things on purpose, so users won’t break them by accident. QA teams test every scenario, flag every bug, and ensure the system is rock solid before launch.
Super Users / End Users
These internal champions are your first line of support when the ERP goes live. They know the ins and outs of the system and help guide colleagues through the learning curve. Pick them well, and you’ll multiply your project’s chances of success.
Report Writer
Once your ERP is live, it’s the insights that matter. Report Writers ensure you’re not just collecting data, you’re using it. From finance dashboards to operational KPIs, they help turn information into action.
Final Word
ERP transformations are resource-intensive, but the right people make all the difference. If you’re planning one, start with a talent plan that’s as robust as your tech plan.
At ThunderLabs, we’ve helped organisations build and secure their digital foundations. and that includes assembling ERP transformation teams that deliver and drive real outcomes.
Looking for support with ERP hiring or delivery? Think ThunderLabs.
