Meet Espresso Tutorials Author Ann Cacciottoli

Meet Espresso Tutorials author Ann Cacciottoli. Ann is the author of First Steps in SAP Financial Accounting (FI) and First Steps in SAP FI Configuration.

How did you get your start with SAP?
I was an accounting manager in a large company that was struggling after numerous acquisitions. Centralizing accounting and finance functions on a common platform was an imperative for continued growth. I was recruited into the IT group to represent the accounting and finance stakeholders during a vendor selection process. When the company selected SAP, much to the dismay of the VP of Finance, I asked to remain part of the IT group. I liked what I saw and wanted to be a part of it.

What are you most proud of in your SAP career?
Following the acquisition of a Canadian entity, I was able to manage a complete integration of all system aspects of accounting & finance within 45 days of the deal close; including training of end users in 15 business units.

What are some of the most important trends that you see currently impacting individuals who work with SAP Financials?
Budgets for implementation and upgrades projects are tight, end-user training is often neglected. Even when appropriate training is provided; there are often delays between the delivery training and the hands on experience to new functionality.

Why did you write a book on SAP Financials Configuration?
During my journey into SAP; I experienced first-hand the challenges of relating technically oriented documentation day-to-day business processes. I wanted to provide the end users with an easy to understand guide for the basic FI transactions that could also be used as reference once the user is active in the system.

What professional organizations are you associated with?
I am a Specialist Master with Deloitte Consulting and a member of the St. Louis chapter of ASUG.
How do you stay up to date on SAP Financials topics? What resources do you regularly use?
SAP Service Marketplace, SAP Learning Hub, and SAP Insider magazine are my favorite resources for credible information on SAP financials topics. I am also fortunate to be an SAP consultant with Deloitte and take advantage of many opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing as we service our clients.

What is your favorite hobby? 
My hobby is playing in a rock/blues band with my husband Joe and two of our close friends.

Ann Cacciottoli is a Specialist Senior with Deloitte, the world’s largest professional services firm. She has extensive experience delivering SAP solutions, with a focus on SAP Financials and Reporting. Her client-service work has taken her to Europe, Asia, and throughout the United States. Ann is passionate about sharing her knowledge and experience with those new to SAP. She is the author of First Steps in SAP Financial Accounting (FI) and First Steps in SAP FI Configuration.