Author(s):
1. Bogusław Bembenek, Rzeszow University of Technology, Faculty of Management, 2. Teresa Piecuch, Rzeszow University of Technology, Faculty of Management, Poland

Abstract:
The article presents a cluster as a form of organisation created by specialised entities of the following sectors: business, science, public administration, NGO, functioning in close vicinity, connected by vertical and horizontal relations, based on cooperation and competition based on mutual values and aims. Due to the fact, that contemporary clusters have mostly a multi-sector character, and moreover, they function in a turbulent environment, it has been emphasised that dynamics of development for these organisations mainly depends on entrepreneurial leadership. Regarding the variety of interpreting the notion of leadership itself, it has been assumed that it is oriented both on efficient implementation of aims as well as sustaining the stability of functioning of organisations. Analysing the theoretical and practical dimensions of leadership in clusters, the attributes of entrepreneurial leaders, the role of a leader and a cluster managers. It has been acknowledged that cluster manager shall combine the features of both a manager and leader. This person has to maintain a high level of engagement, so as the further development and increase of a cluster was possible. Concurrently, there was also indicated a fact that an integral element of strategic competence of a cluster leader is ability of effective anticipation of changes in turbulent environment and anticipating behaviour including openness and flexibility to changes which will be made in the future. In this context, the significance of knowledge, experience as well as creativity and intuition of leaders in the process of: winning favours of various stakeholders, perceiving and using opportunities, developing and effective implementation of changes within projects. Basing on the results of theoretical and empirical studies, the constatation was assumed that the value of a cluster leader is the derivative of his: knowledge and experience, trust, reliability and authority, efficiency of taking decisions, ability of assertive communication, inspiring and motivating of cluster members to constant generation of values, to implement the common mission and vision of development. Moreover, it has been stated that the result of efficient cluster management, including efficient leadership is well organised and motivated team of cluster members which indicates an ability to realise common projects, oriented at strengthening the competitiveness of the cluster.

Key words:
cluster, entrepreneurial, leadership, competence, knowledge, competitiveness

Date of abstract submission:
16.11.2013.

Conference:
REDETE 2014 - Researching Economic Development and Entrepreneurship in Transition Economies