Who determines the organization's mission statement?

• A. Board of Directors and Top Management
• B. Shareholders
• C. Customers
• D. Lower-level managers

Answer: (A)

The mission statement is created by those who hold governance and strategic leadership—the board of directors together with top management. They have the authority to define why the organization exists, its core purpose, values, and the broad scope of activities it will pursue. This sets the compass for all strategic decisions and resource allocations, and it aligns the organization with its long-term goals and stakeholder expectations. Shareholders influence the organization through ownership and governance, but they don't typically craft the official mission. Customers shape needs and expectations, while lower-level managers execute and implement plans; neither group usually originates the organization’s overarching mission.