This handbook meets the growing demand for research approaches capable of capturing leadership as a relational, collective, and dynamic phenomenon. Moving beyond traditional individual-centered perspectives, it presents a comprehensive exploration of qualitative methodologies designed to address the complexity of contemporary leadership studies. Bringing together contributions from leading international scholars, the volume combines foundational theory, methodological innovation, and empirical insights that demonstrate qualitative research in practice. Organized into five thematic sections, it examines topics such as innovative data collection techniques, material and affective methods, intersectionality, subjectivity, psychodynamics, and emerging research contexts including artificial intelligence, posthumanism, and social media.

Each chapter follows a clear and consistent structure, introducing key methods and theories, their foundations, epistemological assumptions, methodological implications, and practical applications. In addition to methodological guidance, the volume critically explores how leadership research can create meaningful impact through writing, teaching, consulting, and engagement beyond academia. By connecting theoretical rigor with empirical illustration, the De Gruyter Handbook of Qualitative Leadership Research Methods equips readers with the knowledge and tools needed to design, conduct, and communicate qualitative research. An essential resource for researchers, postgraduate students, and advanced undergraduates, it offers an accessible and forward-looking guide to understanding and advancing leadership research in an increasingly complex world.