This thesis is based on theoretical consideration of the importance of leadership and the role of the leader in the organization. Many books, magazines and articles have been written on this subject. . However, it is inevitable that the leaders of the past, as well as those focused on the future, possess certain characteristics from which different approaches resulted. The thesis defines the basic features and different views of leadership. It defines the concept and the role of the leader as well as his/her abilities. Each leader uses a certain style or a mix of styles representing the most effecient approach for each specific situation or conditions. One of the challanges in modern management are women in the role of leader. The concept of competetive advantage is explained as well as the competitive capabilities that also form a certain value of the individual company. The integration of skilled people and technology, along with a constant willingness of enterprises to meet customers requirements and to make changes, are the preconditions for competitiveness. Designing and building a competitive advantage is an important task. The dynamic present time requires constant new knowledge and new situations require new organizational and managerial skills. Managing is now increasingly seen as encouraging and guiding the staff, rather than ordering and searching obedience, as it is demosnstrated by the new leadership trends in the 21st century.