Steering Committee Terms of Reference (TOR) and Charter: A key requirement for program / project governance

This foundational document establishes a clear plan for the committee's operations, fostering transparency, accountability, alignment with organisational objectives, and lucid decision-making within the context of a project or program, thereby ensuring responsible project governance. It effectively defines the "rules of engagement" for your program or project steering committee.

As a fundamental guiding document for the operation and governance of a Project Steering Committee, it plays a pivotal role in ensuring the committee's effective discharge of its responsibilities and its alignment with the organisation's strategic goals.

A Steering Committee offers a platform for key stakeholders to exert influence over the project's progress and direction. It is not a mere information-gathering forum but rather a decision-making body that guarantees the attainment of the project's objectives. The steering committee will:

• Provide overall management to the project team and steer the project team to meet its success targets and project outcomes
• Be an advocate for the project's outcome and be committed to, and actively involved in pursing the project's outcomes
• Provide guidance to the project management team by addressing decisions requiring executive attention
• Remove any obstacles by resources and breaking down organisational barriers
• Identify omissions and inconsistencies in the project that require project management attention.
• Be governed by the agreed Steering Committee Charter.