Proposing a multiple pathway approach to leading innovation: Single and dual leader approaches

Innovation is a complex and often paradoxical endeavor. Leading such efforts presents a number of unique challenges to those tasked with managing innovative pursuits. In keeping with the growing trend of considering multiple approaches and pathways to leading, we suggest that there are two broad ways to approach leading innovative endeavors. The first is a single leader approach that requires a leader capable of ambidexterity. The second is a dual leadership approach, where two leaders share the paradoxical burdens of innovation. We discuss the challenges and advantages of each pathway, as well as issues to consider when choosing an appropriate route to leading.