Page, SteveRostron, Alison I.2009-07-102009-07-102009-06http://hdl.handle.net/10034/73255This dissertation addresses the question of identity construction in the middle manager role, and seeks to integrate contemporary research on identity construction and leader-follower identity with research on the position of the manager “in the middle”. A conceptual model, the Middle Manager Role Matrix, is developed which identifies and interprets varying descriptions of middle manager behaviour within the context of key choices facing middle managers: whether to act as leaders or followers, and whether to prioritise relationships with subordinates or superordinates. The Middle Manager Role Matrix is tested through a case study of the Team Leader role within a large public sector organisation, using qualitative methods. The findings of the case study support the validity of the Middle Manager Role Matrix and the thesis that middle manager identity construction is related to the choices of leader/follower behaviour and subordinate/superordinate relationships. The dissertation therefore proposes ways in which the Middle Manager Role Matrix might be further refined, tested and integrated with existing models of leader-follower identity construction.enmiddle managersidentity constructionThesis or dissertation