Master data
Taming the data jungle
At KWS we collect a huge amount of data that is used to conduct our business relationships. This data is managed by a team with a variety of job profiles – also with the aim of simplifying and harmonizing work processes.
Names and addresses, account details and tax numbers, contracts and negotiated prices, as well as material requirements, new varieties and provisions under company codes: “Master data is the heart of our business,” says Evelyn Cubero Ruiz, Team Coordinator Master Data Management. It comes from various departments, such as purchasing, accounts payable, treasury, order to cash, production and planning.
Sales acquires a new customer? Then that data must be created in the SAP system. Purchasing negotiates new prices with a fertilizer dealer? Then the results of the negotiations have to be updated.
Our Master Data Management team includes specialists from a wide range of professions.
Up to 150 tickets per day
The Master Data Management team in Berlin ensures that this information is stored without any errors. As soon as someone from the Business Units or our Finance teams submits new data, a ticket is created for the 20-strong team composed of members from 16 countries. It receives a total of 40 to 150 such jobs a day. The team then checks whether the data is complete, correct and in compliance with our guidelines. “We are responsible for the quality of the information and decide whether it should be entered into SAP or changed again,” says Evelyn. On the whole, the data comes from customers, sales partnerships, purchasing and also from our internal stakeholders in the production plants and crop functions. “We need to keep our data well-maintained so that we are perceived as a trustworthy company.”
But the team does even more: As the link between Finance and IT, it aims to make data usable so as to simplify the work of colleagues. Evelyn cites the example of a system that automatically assigns invoice numbers to customer accounts. The advantage: “Smooth processes and no more incorrect payments, fees or penalties.” A second example: In the past, vendors had to provide extensive documentation to confirm changes to their bank details. Now they simply receive an e-mail with security mechanisms and no longer need to go to their bank. That also reduces the workload on our own employees.
The team consists of a total of 20 colleagues from 16 countries.
Standard solution with exceptions
The S4/Integrated Flow program aims to enhance the efficiency and usability of processes through standardization and automation. The challenge: “We think globally, but we also have to take into account the specific requirements of our local colleagues and the Business Units. We develop standard solutions with specific exceptions for that.”
Her team includes specialists in data processing, programming, accounting, engineering, business administration and communications. “Curiosity and attention to detail are vital in our job. We have to identify new trends, think in terms of new solutions and keep the needs of users in mind.” What drives Evelyn: “I like working with people from such a diverse range of professions and I love to help others find solutions in their operational processes. And I relish the freedom we’re given to develop new ideas.” |© KWS SAAT SE & Co. KGaA 2025
