Cloud-Powered Payroll: How BAM Transformed HR with SAP SuccessFactors and Strada

An interview with Jeroen Sanders, Manager Global HR-IT & Web at BAM By Dennis van de Stolpe

Koninklijke BAM Groep, one of Europe’s leading construction and civil engineering firms, has taken a bold step into the future by modernizing its payroll operations. With a footprint across multiple countries and a legacy of acquisitions, BAM faced the challenge of fragmented systems and inconsistent processes. In January 2025, BAM successfully went live with SAP SuccessFactors Employee Central Payroll, marking a major milestone in its digital HR transformation.

From the outset, this transformation was a joint effort between IT and HR — a shared vision to unify payroll under a single, scalable cloud platform. The goal? To simplify operations, empower employees, and build a future-ready HR ecosystem that supports BAM’s broader digital strategy.

“We didn’t just replace a system, we reimagined how payroll could work for a modern, agile organization. SAP gave us the platform, and Strada brought the expertise to make it real.”

Jeroen Sanders Manager Global HR-IT & Web, BAM

Why payroll needed a rethink with the right partners

Before the transformation, BAM’s payroll landscape was fragmented. Different systems across countries, manual processes, and limited visibility made it difficult to manage headcount, ensure compliance, or support strategic decision-making. With its legacy system reaching end-of-life, BAM saw an opportunity not just to upgrade, but to standardize, simplify, and future-proof its payroll operations through a cloud-first approach.

After a rigorous selection process, BAM chose SAP SuccessFactors Employee Central Payroll, a cloud-based solution known for its reliability, scalability, and integration capabilities. To bring this vision to life, BAM partnered with Strada, whose practical approach and deep SAP expertise aligned perfectly with BAM’s transformation goals. The transformation was co-led by HR and IT, ensuring that both business needs and technical requirements were addressed from day one.

“Strada wasn’t just a vendor, they were a true partner. They helped us shape the process, validate the data, and navigate every challenge with confidence.”

Jeroen Sanders Manager Global HR-IT & Web, BAM

The project kicked off in January 2024 and went live within 12 months, thanks to a collaborative approach that included design workshops, rigorous testing, and a three-month hypercare phase. The result: a modern, cloud-based payroll platform that empowers HR teams and employees alike.

Early wins and employee empowerment

Since go-live, BAM has seen immediate benefits:

• A unified payroll platform across the Netherlands
• Reduced manual workload and improved data accuracy
• Real-time access to salary details via the SAP mobile app
• Enhanced reporting and compliance, including GDPR alignment

Employees now have greater visibility and control, while HR teams can focus on strategic initiatives rather than operational firefighting. The close collaboration between HR and IT ensured that the solution was not only technically sound but also intuitive and impactful for employees across the organization.

Looking to the future

BAM is already planning to expand the solution to its UK operations and integrate SAP’s GenAI assistant Joule to support employee queries. With a strong foundation in place, the company is well-positioned to continue its HR transformation journey.

As Jeroen puts it: “Nobody enjoys a dentist visit, but if it’s painless and quick, you leave relieved. That’s how this project felt—and that’s a testament to the partnership between BAM, SAP, and Strada.”

Advice to other customers: Lessons from BAM’s journey

For organizations considering a payroll transformation, Jeroen Sanders offers a few key takeaways:

“Don’t wait for systems to break before you act. A proactive shift to the cloud gives you control, scalability, and resilience.”

• Start with the end in mind: Define what success looks like, not just in terms of technology, but in process efficiency, employee experience, and data visibility.
• Choose partners, not just providers: The right implementation partner can make all the difference. Strada’s ability to guide both system configuration and process design was critical to BAM’s success.
• Invest in testing and hypercare: Rigorous validation and post-go-live support ensure stability and build trust across the organization.
• Align HR and IT from the start: A successful transformation requires both strategic vision and technical execution. Bringing HR and IT together early ensures the solution meets real-world needs and scales effectively.

Think beyond payroll: A cloud-based payroll system is a foundation for broader HR transformation; from analytics to employee self-service and AI-powered support.

“This wasn’t just a payroll upgrade. It was a strategic move to build a future-ready HR platform — and the cloud made it possible.”

Jeroen Sanders Manager Global HR-IT & Web, BAM