Which stakeholder has the most authority to make decisions about project scope and budget?
- Project Manager
- Senior Management
- Project Sponsor ✓
- Team Lead
Correct answer: Project Sponsor
Option C is correct because the Project Sponsor owns the business case, provides funding, and holds final authority over decisions about project scope and budget; they are the highest-level champion of the project within the organization and are accountable for its business outcomes. Option A is incorrect because the Project Manager is responsible for day-to-day execution and delivery but operates within the constraints and boundaries set by the sponsor; they do not have unilateral authority over scope or budget. Option B is incorrect because Senior Management provides organizational oversight and strategic direction but typically delegates scope and budget authority for a specific project to the designated sponsor. Option D is incorrect because a Team Lead is a technical or functional leader within the project team and has no formal authority over scope or budget decisions.
Topic: · project sponsor, stakeholder authority, project governance, capm