Coaching-Led SAP Group Reporting and SAC for a Carve-Out

The carve-out context and initial challenges

As part of a complex carve-out, ZF was required to establish an independent finance landscape for the new entity while ensuring uninterrupted financial consolidation and reporting. Central corporate functions previously provided by the group were no longer available, and roles, responsibilities and core processes had to be defined from scratch.

At the same time, the existing consolidation setup based on SAP BCS was highly complex and not suited for a smaller, independent organisation. In addition, ZF had to meet regulatory requirements in a timely manner and ensure audit compliance and high data quality. ZF therefore faced the challenge of replacing legacy consolidation processes while achieving day-one readiness in a highly dynamic carve-out environment.

Our approach

PwC supported ZF with a coaching-led delivery approach that combined structured implementation with continuous enablement of the finance and IT teams. The engagement started with target picture and scoping workshops to define the future consolidation and reporting setup and to establish a realistic roadmap for implementation and go-live.

Instead of a purely delivery-driven model, PwC focused on hands-on coaching and case-by-case implementation support, enabling ZF to build in-depth knowledge of SAP Group Reporting and SAP Analytics Cloud during the project. Close collaboration with PwC’s strategic partner Concellens ensured strong functional expertise, efficient delivery and a smooth transition into stable operations.

A scalable and sustainable finance reporting setup

By implementing SAP Group Reporting, ZF established a standardized and transparent consolidation solution tailored to the needs of an independent carve-out entity. Manual effort in consolidation and validation was significantly reduced, while data quality and audit readiness were improved through enhanced validation mechanisms and clear reporting structures.

The coaching-led approach proved to be a key success factor.

It enabled ZF’s finance and IT teams to build deep system and process knowledge during the project, rather than after go-live. Parallel closing phases supported user enablement, process stabilisation and continuous improvement. As a result, ZF achieved day-one readiness under high time pressure while laying the foundation for a scalable and future-proof finance reporting landscape.

The value delivered

Building a fit-for-purpose finance platform for a carved-out entity

The implementation of SAP Group Reporting and SAP Analytics Cloud enabled the newly carved-out entity to establish a modern, right-sized finance platform for consolidation, forecasting and reporting. The solution was deliberately designed to match the entity’s scale, complexity and target operating model as an independent organisation, avoiding unnecessary system overhead while ensuring robustness, transparency and audit readiness.

The new setup positioned the organisation to be divestment-ready and prepared for potential transaction scenarios.

Standardised processes, clear reporting structures and strong audit readiness created a solid foundation for separation activities and future ownership changes. At the same time, the coaching-led delivery approach ensured that finance and IT teams of the newly carved-out entity were fully enabled to operate and further develop the solution independently. As a result, the carved-out entity achieved day-one readiness and established a scalable, investor-ready finance reporting landscape aligned with its strategic objectives.