Project sponsor-who is it, and what is its role in a project?

During projects, regardless of their nature and scale, the presence of a sponsor is a critical factor in their success. The project sponsor is one of the most confusing roles in the project delivery process. The name suggests that it is the person who provides financial support. In reality, however, the role of a project sponsor is much broader, and their presence can bring a tremendous amount of benefit to the project team. Who is a project sponsor, and what tasks and responsibilities do they have?

Who is the Project Sponsor?

In most cases, the Project Sponsor is a person high up in the company who can provide financial support to the project, but there are other functions besides this. He plays an active and decision-making role in the project itself. They can be compared to the ‘father of the project,’ who gives it a start and stimulates its development. He is motivated by the project’s success and keenly interested in the results. The sponsor makes critical decisions on project development, sets the strategic objectives, allocates resources, and assumes the risks associated with its implementation. The sponsor acts as an ambassador for the project, influencing its reputation and credibility. Although the role of the project sponsor is crucial, it needs to be understood more. Companies must often create a project sponsor position and include training and awareness. This can unbalance the team and negatively impact the running of the project. It is, therefore, essential to understand the role of the sponsor and to have effective collaboration and communication between the sponsor and the project manager.

Tasks and responsibilities of the Project Sponsor

The tasks and responsibilities of the project sponsor cover several vital areas, including effective management, which contributes to the project’s success. Here are some key points:

1. Initiating and setting up the project: The project sponsor, often described as the ‘father’ of the project, is the main initiator and originator. This role instills a sense of responsibility and ownership in the project’s success.
2. Provision of resources: The project sponsor’s support involves providing various necessary resources, such as personnel, technology, infrastructure, or access to expertise.
3. Decision-making role: The project sponsor is not just a figurehead but a key decision-maker in the project’s development and direction. Their strategic decisions, objective setting, resource allocation, and risk management carry significant weight and are crucial to the project’s success.
4. Monitoring project progress: The sponsor’s role is to actively monitor the work’s progress. They should be interested in achieving objectives according to schedule and efficiently using resources. Regular reporting and analysis of progress are essential to maintaining control of the project.
5. Troubleshooting and eliminating obstacles involves responsibility for identifying and resolving problems that may arise during the project. The sponsor can be seen as supporting the project team, removing barriers, and providing the conditions for success.
6. Building relationships and collaboration requires effective communication and cooperation with the project team and other stakeholders. The sponsor can be considered a project ambassador who builds positive relationships, manages expectations, and ensures all parties are involved.

Influence and involvement of the project sponsor: an essential factor for project success

The project sponsor plays an active role in making strategic decisions and providing the necessary resources. The sponsor’s involvement from the beginning of the project has many benefits, as it helps define the project’s objectives, scope, and priorities. The sponsor can be considered the ‘gatekeeper’ of the project, monitoring the progress of the work, identifying potential problems, and taking corrective action. Their support and authority are crucial in building trust among project team members and establishing effective communication with other stakeholders, reassuring the audience of the project’s success. Proper involvement of the project sponsor can contribute to more effective risk management, faster decision-making, and achieving the intended results. Therefore, to increase the chances of project success, the sponsor must be actively involved, accountable, and aware of their role as a critical contributor to the project’s outcome.

Project sponsor: a driving force for achieving goals

In summary, the project sponsor is a crucial figure whose role is not limited to the provision of funds. Their primary function is to perform critical responsibilities for the project’s success. Establishing an effective partnership between the project sponsor and the project manager is vital for successfully managing the project and achieving its objectives. Therefore, it is crucial to recognize the role of the project sponsor and ensure their active involvement in project success.