So I got to thinking...

This role of 'Sponsor'... is it really that important!?

This goes back to my article about Leading vs Managing Change. What exactly is the role of a Leader in business? Well there's no difference when it comes to change, whether you're implementing a large scale transformation or making small incremental changes, the role of a leader stays the same. They should inspire, direct, encourage and enable their people to embark on, and navigate, what can be a challenging journey. And with the added confidence and security in knowing that their leader understands the complexities of the change going on, are well prepared and equipped to start the journey, and are with their people every step of the way, blazing the trail whilst offering open and honest communication throughout.

But is this always needed?

The sponsor serves as a role model, and as a business leader, they demonstrate commitment and enthusiasm for the transformation. Through their actions, the sponsor inspires confidence in employees, reinforcing a sense of security and direction during times of uncertainty and change. So in short, Yes! It really is needed.

In summary, the sponsor plays a pivotal role in shaping the vision of the future, driving the project forward, and mobilising the business by leveraging their influence, making critical decisions, and ensuring that there is alignment with organisational goals.

But no one person can do this alone...

In any transformation, the role of the sponsor is critical to the success and smooth implementation of the project, but they require help... otherwise known as a 'sponsorship coalition'.

And here's what a sponsorship coalition typically does:

It's essentially a structured team of stakeholders that supports, champions and further drives the project to success, and here's how it typically works:

• Unified Decision Making: The coalition provides a platform for consolidated decision-making among senior leaders and stakeholders. This helps ensure that strategic decisions align with the overarching goals of the transformation project.
• Resource Allocation: They collectively identify and mobilise the resource required for various phases of the project. This includes securing funding, human resources, and technology.
• Conflict Resolution: By involving diverse stakeholders from across the business, the sponsorship coalition plays a critical role in managing and resolving conflict that might arise during the project lifecycle, ensuring smooth progress with minimal disruption.
• Change Championing: Members of the coalition act as 'change champions' within their respective areas of influence. They inspire and engage others to embrace the transformation initiative, helping to reduce resistance and foster a culture supportive of change.
• Monitoring and Oversight: The coalition is responsible for continuous oversight of the project to ensure it stays on track in terms of time, budget, and scope. They validate the project’s adherence to strategic objectives and make necessary course corrections.

Benefits of a Sponsorship Coalition...

• Enhanced Communication: It facilitates open communication channels between various departments and levels of an organization, allowing for timely information flow and feedback loops.
• Risk Mitigation: Working together, the coalition anticipates potential risks and formulates strategies to mitigate them effectively.
• Unified Front: Presenting a cohesive, unified front boosts the project's credibility and encourages wider organizational buy-in.

Thus, a strong sponsorship coalition equips a transformation project with the strategic direction and support needed to navigate challenges and achieve success.

Question:

Have you ever been a Sponsor or been part of a sponsorship coalition?

Do you Agree that the Sponsor is integral to the success of any transformation project, or did you experience something different?

Let me know your thoughts and experiences...