Who should own the cross-functional product launch checklist?

A cross-functional product launch checklist should be owned by a single designated product marketing manager or launch lead. While multiple departments contribute to the release, having one clear owner prevents confusion and ensures accountability. This individual is responsible for coordinating timelines, facilitating communication, and making final decisions when conflicts arise. They monitor the progress of each task and ensure that all teams are aligned with the overall go-to-market strategy. When ownership is shared among too many people, critical tasks often fall through the cracks because everyone assumes someone else is handling them. The launch owner acts as the central point of contact, keeping everyone focused on the target release date. They also have the authority to enforce stop rules and manage scope creep effectively. By centralizing leadership, you create a more predictable and efficient launch process for the entire organization.