Stakeholder

An individual, group of individuals or organisation with an interest in the activities of an organisation, especially where they can affect or be affected by the activities. A stakeholder is often a member (person or organisation) that supports the principles and purpose of a group to which they belong. A stakeholder will also often be able to influence, to a varying extent, the decisions of an organisation and can also be involved in the delivery, monitoring and assessment of organisational activities.

Stakeholders can be categorised as either primary stakeholders or secondary stakeholders.
• A primary stakeholder is often seen as an internal stakeholder which is involved in the operational workings of an organisation, typically being considered an employee, supplier, or customer.
• A secondary stakeholder can be considered an external stakeholder, such as a shareholder or local community group, that can influence or be affected by the organisation.