As businesses increasingly adopt Oracle NetSuite to streamline operations and drive growth, the need for a skilled and cohesive NetSuite team has never been more critical. NetSuite’s flexibility is one of its greatest strengths – but realizing its full potential requires the right people with the right mix of technical and business expertise.
Whether you’re implementing NetSuite for the first time or scaling your existing ERP environment, building a high-performing NetSuite team is essential to ensure long-term success. This article explores the core roles you need, the skills to look for, and actionable hiring tips to help you assemble a team that can deliver results.
Why a Strong NetSuite Team Matters
NetSuite is a powerful platform, but it’s not plug-and-play. Without the right team to configure, manage, and optimize the system, businesses often face:
- Underutilized features
- Data inconsistencies
- Inefficient workflows
- User adoption issues
- Costly delays or rework
A high-performing NetSuite team ensures your ERP system aligns with business goals, adapts to evolving needs, and remains a strategic asset rather than a bottleneck.
Key Roles in a NetSuite Team
Depending on your company size and complexity, your NetSuite team may consist of several specialized roles. Here are the most common and essential ones:
1. NetSuite Administrator
Role Overview:
The NetSuite Administrator is the system’s gatekeeper. They manage user roles, permissions, dashboards, saved searches, reports, and routine configurations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Maintain system performance and integrity
- Manage user accounts and roles
- Create custom fields, forms, and workflows (using SuiteBuilder or SuiteFlow)
- Provide end-user training and support
- Act as a liaison between users and developers
Key Skills:
- Deep knowledge of NetSuite UI and settings
- Experience with roles and permissions
- Understanding of SuiteBuilder, SuiteFlow, and saved searches
- Problem-solving and communication skills
2. NetSuite Developer (SuiteScript Developer)
Role Overview:
The developer extends NetSuite’s functionality using SuiteScript (JavaScript-based scripting language). They build custom applications, integrations, and automations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Write SuiteScript 1.0/2.0 code
- Customize workflows and automation
- Build and maintain third-party integrations
- Troubleshoot and resolve script issues
Key Skills:
- Strong JavaScript/SuiteScript knowledge
- Experience with SuiteScript 2.0 modules
- Familiarity with NetSuite’s schema and API
- Version control and testing best practices
3. NetSuite Consultant or Functional Analyst
Role Overview:
The consultant bridges the gap between business needs and NetSuite capabilities. They design solutions that support strategic and operational goals.
Key Responsibilities:
- Gather and analyze business requirements
- Configure modules like CRM, Financials, Inventory, etc.
- Recommend best practices and solutions
- Provide user training and documentation
Key Skills:
- Deep understanding of NetSuite modules
- Project management experience
- Strong business analysis and communication skills
- Industry-specific knowledge (e.g., manufacturing, retail)
4. NetSuite Project Manager
Role Overview:
The project manager ensures NetSuite-related projects (implementations, upgrades, integrations) stay on track.
Key Responsibilities:
- Define project scope and timelines
- Coordinate internal and external teams
- Manage budgets and risks
- Communicate with stakeholders
Key Skills:
- ERP implementation experience
- Familiarity with NetSuite lifecycle
- Agile and waterfall project methodologies
- Strong leadership and communication skills
5. NetSuite Integration Specialist (Optional)
Role Overview:
For companies with complex IT ecosystems, this specialist handles API-based connections between NetSuite and other platforms (e.g., Salesforce, Shopify, Workday).
Key Responsibilities:
- Design and implement integrations using SuiteTalk (SOAP), RESTlets, or third-party iPaaS tools
- Ensure data synchronization and integrity
- Monitor and troubleshoot integration errors
Key Skills:
- API knowledge (REST/SOAP)
- SuiteScript experience
- Familiarity with middleware (Boomi, Celigo, Mulesoft)
Hiring Tips: How to Build the Right Team
✅ 1. Start with a Needs Assessment
Before hiring, assess your NetSuite roadmap:
- Are you implementing for the first time or optimizing?
- Which modules are critical (e.g., Finance, Inventory, CRM)?
- What level of customization do you need?
This will help determine whether you need a full-time team or a mix of contractors and consultants.
✅ 2. Look for NetSuite Certifications
Oracle offers certifications like:
- NetSuite Administrator
- NetSuite ERP Consultant
- SuiteFoundation
While not a replacement for experience, certifications show that candidates have been formally trained and understand NetSuite best practices.
✅ 3. Value Business Acumen as Much as Technical Skills
A technically skilled NetSuite developer who doesn’t understand your industry may miss the bigger picture. Prioritize candidates who can translate business requirements into system solutions and vice versa.
✅ 4. Consider Contractors for Specialized Needs
For short-term or complex needs (e.g., integrations, workflow automations), hiring a contractor or partner firm might be more cost-effective than a full-time hire.
✅ 5. Use Staffing Partners Specializing in NetSuite
General recruiters may not understand the nuances of NetSuite roles. A skilled NetSuite staffing agency with ERP experience can help you:
- Find vetted, pre-screened candidates
- Shorten hiring timelines
- Reduce bad hires
Team Structure Examples by Company Size
| Company Size | Suggested NetSuite Team | Notes |
| Small Business (10–50 employees) | NetSuite Admin + Consultant (part-time or contractor) | Focus on core modules, light customization |
| Mid-Market (50–250 employees) | Admin, Developer, Functional Consultant | Greater need for automation, reporting, and support |
| Enterprise (250+ employees) | Admin, 2–3 Developers, Functional Lead, PM, Integration Specialist | Handles multiple modules, integrations, and large teams |
Fostering a High-Performance Culture
Once you’ve hired the right people, focus on retaining and empowering them:
- Encourage continuous learning – NetSuite evolves, and your team should too.
- Provide sandbox environments – For safe testing and development.
- Document processes – Avoid knowledge silos.
- Celebrate innovation – Let your team solve problems and suggest improvements.
Conclusion
Building a high-performing NetSuite team is not just about hiring people—it’s about assembling a group with complementary skills who can support, evolve, and scale your ERP investment. From administrators and developers to consultants and PMs, each role plays a critical part in the success of your NetSuite ecosystem.
By clearly defining your needs, valuing both technical and business expertise, and hiring smartly, you’ll be equipped to not only maintain NetSuite—but to maximize its power as a business growth engine.
