This is true, even somewhat well run management will share the projected plan with the board and get their buy in. The board resolution approving it formally is

This is true, even somewhat well run management will share the projected plan with the board and get their buy in. The board resolution approving it formally is typically on first board meeting after the employee joins. It is possible for management with poor relationship with the board and ex-CEO/Founder and issued offer letters without board consent or awareness. Approval may not be necessary depending on how the options are structured, for example phantom stock plans wouldn't need board approval per se since no actual stock ( or option for it) is issued.