SAP PP/ DS Consultant

A Production Planning and Detailed Scheduling (PP/DS) consultant specializes in advanced planning and scheduling within SAP's Advanced Planning and Optimization (APO) module or SAP S/4HANA. They focus on aligning production planning with real-time demand and optimizing production schedules to maximize efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Requirement Gathering & Analysis

   • Collaborate with business stakeholders to understand production planning and scheduling requirements.
   • Analyze existing business processes to identify optimization opportunities.

2. System Design & Configuration

   • Configure PP/DS functionalities in SAP, such as heuristics, optimization, and detailed scheduling.
   • Set up planning objects like resources, production versions, and PDS (Production Data Structures).

3. Integration

   • Ensure seamless integration between PP/DS and other modules (e.g., SAP MM, SD, and PP).
   • Work on integration with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and third-party tools.

4. Advanced Planning Techniques

   • Use tools like pegging and backward/forward scheduling.
   • Implement constraint-based planning, considering resource availability and lead times.

5. Performance Optimization

   • Optimize planning runs and schedules to minimize production costs and cycle times.
   • Analyze and resolve performance bottlenecks in planning systems.

6. Training & Documentation

   • Provide end-user training on PP/DS functionalities.
   • Prepare detailed documentation, including functional specifications and user manuals.

Required Skills:

• Technical Knowledge:
  • Proficiency in SAP PP/DS within APO or S/4HANA.
  • Understanding of planning strategies, capacity planning, and detailed scheduling.
  • Experience with CIF (Core Interface) for data transfer between SAP systems.
• Soft Skills:
  • Analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
  • Strong communication skills for engaging with stakeholders and users.

Experience Needed:

• At least 5–8 years of experience in SAP PP/DS consulting or a similar role.
• Hands-on involvement in full-cycle PP/DS implementations.
• Industry experience in manufacturing, automotive, or consumer goods is a plus.