DMP SRO appointment letter

---

Details

The terms of appointment for Senior Responsible Owners should be set out in a formal appointment letter. This template has been designed specifically for the appointment of SROs to DMP programmes and projects.

Project Delivery Advisors from the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA) can support departments throughout this process, including advising on when the DMP or GMPP template should be used.

This template must not be used for:

• any SRO appointments for GMPP programmes or projects
• any SRO appointments for OMP and any other programmes or projects
• portfolio‑level appointments, as portfolios are not directed or managed by an SRO

What the Appointment Letter Should Cover

Appointment letters should set out:

• the line of accountability for the SRO, including relationships to governance and sponsoring bodies
• the SRO’s objectives and performance criteria in delivering the project
• the point at which SRO accountability begins, expected time commitment, and duration of tenure
• any known succession planning arrangements where tenure will not cover the full life of the project
• decision rights, limits of authority, and any tolerances that must be observed
• responsibilities for governance and assurance, including any departmental requirements
• reporting and transparency requirements
• key interfaces and relationships, particularly with the business owner for the delivered project
• any expected development or additional requirements of the SRO

The appointment letter enables the SRO to consider the basis on which the project is established. The SRO should raise any concerns with the Accounting Officer before signing, confirming acceptance of the terms of appointment.

Please refer to Government Project Delivery Policy Note 01/26 for more information about the appointment of Senior Responsible Owners.

---

Product Information

Delivery vehicle Appraisal, Definition, Delivery, Feasibility, Operation, Programme, Project

Practice Governance, Roles & Accountabilities

Sector Digital and data, Government Transformation and Service Delivery, Infrastructure and Construction, Military Capability

Product type Tools, templates and techniques

Updates

1 April 2026

First published