A department lead requested additional items be included in the project during the execution phase.

During execution, any addition to scope must go through the formal change control process. The project manager should initiate a change request for proper evaluation and approval. This ensures that scope, budget, and schedule impacts are assessed before proceeding.

According to the PMBOK® Guide – Seventh Edition, any changes to the baseline during execution must follow the change control procedures defined in the governance structure.

Option A risks scope creep.

Option B is helpful but not sufficient as a next step.

Option C closes the door without considering the critical nature of the request.