In change management, who is defined as an executive from the organization's line operation who has position authority to direct employees toward organizational goals?

• A. Sponsor
• B. Change agent
• C. Stakeholder
• D. Beneficiary

Answer: (A)

In change management, the sponsor is the executive from the organization’s line operation who has the formal authority to direct employees toward organizational goals. This person sits in a position to allocate resources, set priorities, and remove obstacles, ensuring the change stays aligned with strategic objectives. The sponsor provides visible support and political backing for the initiative, communicates its importance, and drives accountability across managers and teams. This role is distinct from a change agent, who facilitates the process itself; a stakeholder, who is anyone affected by the change; and a beneficiary, who gains from the change. The sponsor’s position authority and responsibility for outcomes make them the best fit for directing staff toward the goals of the change.