What behaviours and characteristics should an SRO have?
An SRO needs to:
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take responsibility - including putting things right when they go wrong, and ensuring that recognition is given when they go right
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have a good understanding of the business issues associated with the project
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be a senior reputable figure approved by the Department/Agency Management Board, or their delegated authority to be the SRO for a project or programme
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be active, not a figurehead
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have sufficient experience and training to carry out SRO responsibilities
An SRO must be someone who can:
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broker relationships with stakeholders within and outside the project
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deploy delegated authority to ensure that the project achieves its objectives
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provide advice and guidance to the project manager(s) as necessary
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acknowledge their own skill/knowledge gaps and structure the project board and project management team accordingly
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give the time required to perform the role effectively
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negotiate well and influence people
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be aware of the broader perspective and how it affects the project
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network effectively
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be honest and frank about project progress