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​Debra Linder is a dynamic SAP Change and Training Facilitator with a fun and creative approach. She’s worked for Speller International many times and is skilled in providing training and workshops to various sized audiences in both the government and private sectors.

Get to know more about SAP Training and Debra in our Meet the Consultant chat below!

How did you get into SAP?

I had been in IT for many years so it’s hard not to know about SAP.  I then worked at an SAP JV in 2003 for three years in Pre-Sales, thus I was quite familiar with SAP and uPerform.

I decided to move into Training about nine years ago and was looking to get a first contract.  I found Speller, but they wouldn’t send me on any interviews without tangible SAP training experience. I landed a contract in the Gold Coast many years ago in SAP HR and after that, Speller were keen to have me on board.

This goes to show that Speller is serious about the quality of their contractors, which I very much appreciate and respect.

What do you like about it?

To be blunt: the daily rate is always high, there are always new modules to learn, and new opportunities happening all over ANZ.  Thus, the chance to work at great places and learn new things is always happening on an SAP contract, and I love variety and challenge. Especially now with Ariba and SuccessFactors becoming so popular, there are more opportunities to branch out.

What don’t you like about it?

Sometimes the modules implemented are really old versions and as such it feels like a step back in time.  Other times, the modules are great but the clients tend to discount the value placed on Change and Training over the technical aspects.

This is frustrating when we all know that humans are the ones using the technology and humans are the ones resistant to change.  Thus, in my view, this is of the utmost importance when it comes to a successful transformation project, so when this happens it is a ‘challenge’ to convert the tech mindset to a people mindset… but this is my forté!

What do you do outside of work?

Mostly sleep.  I tend to select the last minute, intense, short deadline projects and as such, I tend to work many hours in the beginning to ensure things get over the line.  So, when I’m not working, I’m catching up on sleep and reconnecting with friends I’ve ignored for months.  The rest of the time I take off overseas any chance I can in between projects.

Which actor would play you in a movie about your life? And why?

Sandra Bullock.  She’s funny, self-deprecating, a bit of a klutz, very direct and is always seen for her kind heart no matter what.

What career advice would you give to the 20-year old Debra Linder?

This one is easy…. I’d tell her to take the Pre-IPO software vendor job in Amsterdam that was offered when she was 30 as she’d be a retired millionaire today! I’d then suggest she get an Org Psych Masters and more certifications early on rather than later in life.

How do you see your life/career in 10 years’ time?

I am very much hoping to be retired from IT and either volunteering or doing a part time job that’s all about coaching and personal growth. 

Why is Speller International the best in the world??? (you can take this one with a pinch of salt haha!)

Because of Chris Oughton of course!!!  Besides the fact the staff are long term and get to know you well, are proactive in assisting your search, and a million other reasons, it’s mainly their level of professionalism and reach.  They have fabulous contacts and are so well connected in the industry.

They are all so dedicated to knowing ‘who is who’, so they can truly match the best resource to the best company as often as possible. And their Xmas parties are fabulous! Spellertinis anyone?

Thank you Debra! Stay tuned for more Meet the Consultant articles in the coming months. In the meantime, see what opportunities are out there for you in our SAP Listings