Department heads in higher education have a dual role as both managers and leaders, which can create tensions as they balance administrative and faculty expectations. The role of department heads has gained attention due to the need for support for faculty, staff, and students. Effective leadership for department heads involves strategic vision, effective communication, collaboration, and a commitment to academic excellence. Transformational leadership, which inspires commitment and loyalty among faculty, staff, and students, is particularly effective in higher education. Department heads should prioritize advocacy, assessment and accountability, community engagement, a positive environment, innovation and adaptability, mentorship and professional development, research and scholarship, and resource management in their strategic vision. Effective communication involves active listening, adaptability, conflict resolution, crisis communication, feedback mechanisms, inclusive communication, transparency, and the use of technology. Collaboration is fostered through continuous improvement, cross-collaboration, diversity and inclusion, inclusive decision-making, interdisciplinary collaboration, project and task delegation, resource allocation, and faculty/staff empowerment. Academic excellence is promoted through innovative teaching methods, student success, research opportunities, infrastructure and resources, leading by example, a culture of collaboration, clear expectations, and professional development. By embracing transformational leadership principles, department heads can navigate their complex roles and foster a positive, inclusive environment for all stakeholders. [Extracted from the article]