Which are the key elements of a successful Steering Committee?

Eduard, I completely understand you. Steering Committees are meant to provide clear direction and decision-making for projects or programs, but they go soemtimes to the weekds or aneverendingdiscussions without reaching clear conclusions.

In my experience, a clear and structured agenda like Rami mentioned makes a huge difference.. By setting specific time limits for each agenda item and focusing on key updates, risks, actions, Q&A, and next steps, you ensure that discussions stay on track and lead to actionable outcomes.

This is a litmus test for effective stakeholder engagement and leading without power.

I agree with Kiron that setting up the steering committee is the first step. I found it helpful to include executives who were critical of the project, as they could be contained by other, more positive SC members. Every key department (as recipient or resource) for the project should have a representative on the SC.

Often, the sponsor chairs the SC, and it is important to have a briefing with him or her before the SC itself. Set the agenda short, less than 1 hour. Prepare a short pitch and review it with your mentor. Focus on asks (resources, decisions), challenging but doable for SC members. Make sure there are no big surprises. If there are, inform SC members individually beforehand. Be aware an SC has its dynamics and may be an extension of other power games between executives.

Engage with all SC members at least once a month, informally, e.g., at lunch or coffee. Keep track of their often hidden points. They might help you if you run into problems that need creative solutions (One SC member helped out when I needed extra funding).
You should try to be the minute writer but let someone else monitor the meeting and take notes. Get approval from the sponsor before sending out minutes.