SAP is targeting channel partners with direct recruitment and training assistance via a new pilot program.
Modelled on an overseas initiative, the SAP Business One Sales Academy will attract, train and deploy SAP Business One qualified sales professionals into local partners who are looking for staff trained on the software.
SAP ANZ general manager of small and midsize enterprises, Michael Reidy, said the vendor hoped to inject up to 20 new sales staff into the channel by year's end. Partners would be responsible for paying salaries.
"These will be frontline sales people working within our channel partners, developing their own leads and also working with the leads we generate here," he said. "There has been a lot of demand for Business One in the market and a real shortage of skills."
The software vendor will begin by working with Michael Page Recruitment to source an initial batch of sales staff. It has briefed the recruiter to look for people with 3-5 years experience in IT.
Successful candidates will participate in a four day SAP-funded boot camp covering sales processes and training. They will be placed with one of six SAP partners in full-time roles.
SAP has only announced Evolution Software Services as one of the six partners which will be taking staff through the Academy, but other names are expected to follow.
