This phenomenological qualitative study identified the leadership competencies that distance education (DE) leaders regard as essential to the successful administration of DE programs and courses in contemporary education. The following competencies were discussed in the study: flexibility, collaboration, active listening, communication, empathy, trust, shared vision, persuasion, and delegation of authority. Further, all participants recognized change management as the most significant competency for DE leaders to possess in contemporary education. The results also displayed participative leadership style as the emerging leadership theory in contemporary distance education. Indeed, a participative leadership style would ensure collaboration among team members and the pursuit of common goals for the betterment of the DE program. The emerging and multitasking role of DE leaders requires a leadership style that is inclusive of all the stakeholders' interests as well as participation in the decision-making process. Recommendations include further studies pertaining to participative leadership style in relation to DE leadership in times of constant change in higher education, for conclusive evidence. The results of the study benefit the field of DE leadership on multiple levels, including current DE leaders in need of skills upgrade and best practices, administrators and human resources personnel looking for recruitment guidelines, and leadership training programs seeking new data for curriculum design pertaining to effective DE leadership practices. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]