Leadership and governance in higher education are defined in the Law of Georgia on Higher Education. Higher education institutions operate under a collegial model that combines academic autonomy with administrative accountability.

Management and self-governance are exercised through several key roles and bodies, including the Rector, Academic Council, Representative Council (Senate) and Chancellor. Additional leadership functions are carried out by vice-rectors and deans, who support both academic and administrative management.

The Rector serves as the institution’s chief executive and academic leader, responsible for overall management, strategic planning and external representation. In public higher education institutions, rectors are elected by the Academic Council, whereas in private institutions they are appointed in accordance with the institution's statutes. Candidates are required to hold a doctoral degree and demonstrate relevant academic and managerial competence. Terms of office are typically four years, with the possibility of re-election.

In public universities, the Academic Council serves as the primary body for academic decision-making, determining academic programs, research priorities, and academic policies. The Representative Council (Senate) is the highest representative body, responsible for approving strategic development plans, internal regulations and the institutional budget.

The Chancellor is responsible for financial and administrative management and ensures the effective use of institutional resources. The Chancellor is appointed by the Representative Council (Senate) and operates separately from the Rector, ensuring a division between academic and administrative governance. Terms of office for chancellors are typically four years, with one possible reappointment.