17: Complexity Leadership Theory

Complexity leadership theory is an umbrella term encompassing numerous perspectives, models, and theories applying complexity science to leadership. Complexity leadership theory emphasizes three distinct and complimentary leadership types that work together to enable adaptive leadership within organizational structures: administrative, adaptive, and enabling. Complexity in our lives and the systems we work in creates tensions. Leaders can leverage these tensions to enable adaptability through collaboration, learning, innovation, and growth. Navigating complexity is a process of meaning making, action, and reflection. This chapter explores the history and context around the complexity leadership theory, defines the theory, and concludes with strengths and opportunities of the theory.