In a flat organization, the role of the Executive Director (ED) or CEO is anything but flat. Instead, it’s dynamic, multifaceted, and requires a level of adaptability that would make even the most seasoned shape-shifter jealous. Think of the many-faced god from Game of Thrones, or Prince—the musical genius who could do it all, from shredding a guitar solo to stepping back and letting others shine.

So what does it mean to lead in a flat organization? Here’s the secret: while titles may not carry the same hierarchical weight, the ED is still responsible for holding the vision and values that guide the organization. It’s like steering a ship where everyone is a co-navigator—collaborative, yet still relying on someone to keep the compass steady.

1. The Vision Keeper

At its core, the ED’s primary role is to hold the vision and values of the organization. In a flat structure, this doesn’t mean dictating every move but rather being the touchstone that everyone looks to when things get fuzzy.

Picture a lighthouse. When the team is overwhelmed by stormy seas or lost in a fog of competing priorities, the ED beams out clarity: This is why we’re here. This is what we stand for. Without this grounding force, even the flattest of organizations can drift off course.

2. The Flexible Leader

A flat organization requires the ED to wear many hats—and not just the fancy ones. One day, you’re the big-picture strategist; the next, you’re rolling up your sleeves alongside the team to troubleshoot a technical issue or brainstorm marketing ideas.

Flexibility is the name of the game. It’s about knowing when to step in and lead from the front and when to step back, creating space for others to take the spotlight. This isn’t a power move; it’s about fostering shared ownership and showing your team that leadership doesn’t belong to one person alone.

3. The Cheerleader Extraordinaire

Here’s where the Prince analogy comes into play. He wasn’t just a legendary performer; he was also known for cultivating incredible talent around him, celebrating others, and elevating the whole experience.

In a flat organization, the ED often acts as a cheerleader, standing shoulder to shoulder with their team and encouraging them to shine. Your team members are experts in their own areas, and it’s your job to create an environment where their brilliance is amplified. By doing this, you ensure the organization thrives through collective strength.

4. The Balancer of Chaos and Creativity

Flat organizations thrive on collaboration and creativity, but without careful balancing, this can sometimes veer into chaos. The ED becomes the steady hand that channels all this energy into productive, aligned efforts. It’s a dance—structured enough to maintain direction but loose enough to allow room for innovation.

This balancing act is especially critical in conflict or decision-making. With no strict hierarchy to fall back on, the ED often becomes the mediator, facilitator, and final decision-maker when necessary.

5. The Culture Architect

Flat organizations can be fertile ground for innovation, but they also require a strong culture to prevent ambiguity or stagnation. As the ED, you’re not just steering the ship; you’re building it in real-time.

Your role is to model the values you want the organization to embody—transparency, trust, collaboration—and ensure those values permeate every decision, meeting, and initiative.

Final Thoughts: The Paradox of Leadership in a Flat World

The beauty (and challenge) of being an ED in a flat organization is embracing paradox. You’re the leader who doesn’t cling to control, the visionary who listens deeply, and the star who gladly shares the stage.

If you’re in this role, take heart: it’s not about being perfect or having all the answers. It’s about showing up authentically, staying adaptable, and guiding your team with a steady hand and an open heart. Whether you’re steering the ship, shredding a solo, or cheering from the sidelines, your many faces are what make flat leadership work.