Abstract
The rise of blockchain technology has introduced decentralised leadership models that challenge traditional hierarchical structures in organisations. In blockchain startups, decision-making is distributed among team members, token holders, or smart contract-driven governance models, raising questions about efficiency, innovation, and scalability. While decentralised leadership fosters transparency, autonomy, and rapid innovation, it also introduces challenges related to coordination, accountability, and governance.
This study examines the effectiveness of decentralised leadership in European blockchain startups, focusing on its impact on innovation, decision-making processes, and organisational growth. Using a mixed-methods research approach, the study assesses how employee s navigate leaderless environments, the advantages and limitations of decentralised governance, and potential strategies for balancing decentralisation with operational efficiency. The expected findings suggest that blockchain startups benefit from decentralised governance models but require hybrid leadership frameworks to ensure scalability, accountability, and decision-making agility.
This research contributes to leadership studies, blockchain governance literature, and startup management frameworks by offering practical insights into optimising decentralised leadership for long-term organisational success. The study’s findings can inform blockchain entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers on structuring decentralised firms without sacrificing efficiency.