Comprehensive and Detailed 200 to 250 words of Explanation From Exact Extract of project-programme-and-portfolio-management of 5th Edition MSP:

In MSP 5th Edition, the Organization Theme defines the roles and responsibilities required to direct, manage, and deliver the programme. The most critical role is the Senior Responsible Owner (SRO). The SRO is ultimately accountable for the programme’s success and must be a senior individual with the authority to ensure the programme meets its objectives and delivers the projected benefits.

The appointment of a Chief Finance Officer (CFO) as the SRO is highly appropriate because the SRO must "own" the Business Case. Since the primary drivers of the Smart Meter Programme are financial (increasing customer numbers and reducing operational costs), the CFO is best positioned to monitor these outcomes. According to MSP, the SRO must provide strategic direction and ensure that the programme remains viable and focused on its benefits. Option A is correct because it highlights the SRO’s responsibility for benefit realization and financial accountability. While technical or industry knowledge (as mentioned in Options C and D) is helpful, the primary requirement for an SRO is the ability to lead the change and be accountable for the investment. The CEO (Option D) is usually part of the Sponsoring Group to whom the SRO reports, rather than being the SRO themselves, to maintain a layer of objective oversight.