This article provides an overview of the status of leadership in social work, with an emphasis on unique functions and challenges leaders face in the field. Included in this review is a consideration of the concept of leadership as distinct from management, a historical review of the development of leadership as a specialty within social work, and a look at the reported effectiveness of various leadership models. Finally, it is argued that among the various leadership models to choose from, client-centered leadership is consistent with the goals and values that undergird the profession.