Discover how we experienced SAP SAPPHIRE in Madrid and our annual Chill Out at Dusk event
On May 26th, NTT DATA held its well-established event “Chill Out at Dusk” at the iconic Teatro Real in Madrid. This exclusive evening has become a landmark in Spain’s technological event calendar. The gathering served as a precursor to the international SAP Sapphire event, which NTT DATA sponsors, attracting over 170 attendees, including 68 clients, in a prime environment for idea exchange, inspiration, and strengthening strategic relationships.
The event turned one of the capital’s most emblematic spaces into a unique networking venue, offering unparalleled views of Madrid at sunset. In this relaxed yet professional atmosphere, attendees enjoyed an immersive experience that combined technology, future vision, and human connection.
One of the most notable moments of the day was a special artificial intelligence show created for the occasion. This performance not only amazed with its creativity and staging but also served as a catalyst for discussions on the transformative role of AI in today’s business landscape. It was an original and powerful way to illustrate how technology can be both an innovation tool and a bridge for strategic dialogue.
This gathering represented a valuable opportunity to consolidate the strategic alliance between NTT DATA and SAP, bringing together some of the leading figures in the technology ecosystem. In a context marked by accelerated digital transformation, the event reaffirmed their joint commitment to innovation and support for organizations.
Víctor López Barrantes, Country Manager of NTT DATA in Spain, emphasized the company’s distinctive role in the market:
“NTT DATA offers companies in Spain a unique combination of deep local knowledge and global capabilities. We are not just a service provider, but a long-term partner with strong sector expertise. We have a team of SAP-certified professionals and support more than 7,500 active clients worldwide in production environments.”
Currently, NTT DATA has over 20,000 SAP experts globally, with more than 1,200 located in Spain, providing advice, support, and strategic guidance to companies across all sectors. This capability has been recognized internationally: the company has once again been named a RISE with SAP Validated Partner and highlighted as a leader in SAP services by the Everest Group PEAK Matrix® report, solidifying its position as a benchmark in technology consulting and business transformation.
Ken Katsuyama – NTT SVP, Head of Global Business at NTT DATA, underscored the dual role the company plays in its relationship with SAP: not only as a strategic partner but also as one of its largest global clients. He stated, “My responsibility is to look after the global business of the NTT group, and a fundamental part of that is building and maintaining a strong relationship with SAP. From NTT DATA, we also act as a zero customer, which allows us to provide a unique perspective and be a reference buyer capable of influencing the development of joint solutions.”
This dual role—as both partner and client—reinforces NTT DATA’s position as a key player in the SAP ecosystem, capable of leading by example and driving innovation from within.
Brandon Lee, Chief Strategic Alliance Officer at NTT, highlighted the strength of the alliance with SAP, which has now spanned 35 years of continuous collaboration. “It is exceptional to maintain such a long-lasting relationship based on trust and shared values, despite our geographical differences,” he noted. Lee emphasized that this partnership has grown exponentially and is prepared to embrace a new stage of joint innovation with the advent of technologies like generative AI.
Finally, Nicolaj Vang Jessen, Chief Consulting Officer, Head of GIIC and NEE Region, focused on how NTT DATA assists large companies and clients in accelerating their migration. “We help large enterprises accelerate their SAP transformation through a combination of deep industry knowledge, proven methodologies, and scalable deliverables.”
Ultimately, the evening was a tangible demonstration of NTT DATA’s commitment as a RISE with SAP Validated Partner, a distinction that acknowledges its ability to provide comprehensive end-to-end services. From strategic consulting to technical implementation and managed services, NTT DATA accompanies each client on their journey toward innovation, tailoring each solution to their specific needs and transformation pace.
Beyond the speeches and figures, the event was a celebration of the value of long-lasting alliances, technology serving people, and the importance of creating spaces to share experiences, ideas, and visions for the future. It reaffirmed NTT DATA’s role as a key player in the SAP ecosystem and as a trusted partner for organizations committed to a solid, sustainable, and human digital future.
