Which of the following roles approves the project scope statement, phase gate reviews, solution validations, scope changes, and project success criteria?

The project manager is responsible for planning, executing, and controlling the project, but does not hold the authority to approve scope and success criteria - that authority belongs to the business solution owner.

A subject matter expert provides specialized technical or domain knowledge to inform project decisions but does not hold formal approval authority over scope statements or phase gates.

The solution owner is the individual accountable for the business solution being delivered and holds the authority to approve the project scope statement, phase gate reviews, solution validations, scope changes, and success criteria. This role represents the business side of the project and ensures the solution meets business needs. The solution owner's approval authority distinguishes this role from the project manager, who executes and manages rather than approves.

Stakeholders are any individuals with an interest in the project outcome, but the broad stakeholder category does not carry the specific approval authority described - that is reserved for the solution owner role.