About the opportunity
The World Food Programme (WFP) is seeking a Senior Programme Lead – One Payroll (SAP S/4HANA) based at its Headquarters in Rome, Italy. Reporting to the Chief of Digital Services, the Programme Lead will direct the end-to-end delivery of the One Payroll Programme, consolidating WFP payroll systems into a single SAP-based solution aligned with SAP S/4HANA, Workday, and UN80 objectives. Key accountabilities include project planning, cross-functional governance across TEC, HR, and CFO teams, risk management, and establishing a centralized payroll operating model.
Salary and benefits
- Attractive compensation package under WFP Consultant Level 3 terms.
- Opportunity to lead a high-impact digital transformation project at a 2020 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate organization.
- Access to WFP professional development programs, training, coaching, and mentorship.
Who can apply?
- Advanced university degree in IT, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field.
- 10–12 years of progressive project/programme management experience.
- Proven track record in large-scale ERP/SAP implementations.
- Fluency in English (level C); knowledge of Spanish, French, or Arabic is an asset.
- Desirable: PMP, PRINCE2, Agile, or equivalent certification.
- Desirable: Experience in Workday, HR/payroll, or shared services transformation.
Required documents
- CV
- Cover Letter
When to apply
- Applications close on September 27, 2026, at 23:59 GMT+01:00 (Rome time).
How to apply
- Ensure your Workday profile is complete and accurate, including employment history, academic qualifications, and language skills.
- Submit your CV and Cover Letter online through the official WFP Workday recruitment portal.
- Contact global.hrerecruitment@wfp.org if you experience technical issues while submitting your application.
Additional information
- Contract duration: 11 months as a Consultant Level 3.
- Duty station: Rome, Italy (WFP HQ), with a fully present work arrangement.
- The United Nations does not charge any application, processing, or recruitment fees.
- Selected candidates will undergo reference and background checks.
- Members of specific UN oversight bodies (e.g., ACABQ, ICSC, Joint Inspection Unit) are ineligible during service and for three years after.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Project managers with 10–12 years of experience leading large-scale ERP or SAP implementations.
- Professionals with expertise in digital transformation, specifically integrating SAP S/4HANA and Workday systems.
- Candidates who thrive in high-impact, cross-functional environments within international organizations.
What should you think carefully about?
- This is an 11-month consultancy contract, which does not offer the long-term security of a permanent staff position.
- The role is based in Rome and requires a fully present, on-site work arrangement.
- Applicants should ensure their Workday profile is fully updated, as this is the primary submission method.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This consultancy is a premier opportunity for a senior lead to manage a high-visibility digital transformation at a Nobel Peace Prize-winning organization. It is perfect for someone looking to add a major global project to their portfolio while gaining experience in UN-level payroll governance.
Our take
Highly recommended for experienced SAP project leads seeking a short-term, high-impact international assignment; less suitable for those seeking permanent employment.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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