Leadership is of great importance as it promotes a culture of innovation that generates a competitive advantage for organizations. Innovation can change the living standards of the entire population. The main objective of the study is to determine whether business leadership is an essential factor in promoting innovation in the manufacturing sector. In the methodological part, 323 companies were studied, also using the structure of the Ibero-American Model of Management Excellence to achieve excellence in management, innovation, and continuous improvement. The statistical tools used were Cronbach's Alpha and Chi-Square. Among the results manufacture of clothing and bodybuilding, there is a belief that it is not necessary to communicate the mission, vision, and values while in the manufacture of footwear, it is crucial. In the garment manufacturing sector, the study shows that it is necessary to keep track of raw material stock, product (stock management system), manage resources through strategic alliances with suppliers (web platforms for suppliers, purchase of supplies). In the case of bodies, have a social benefits plan (IESS affiliation, vacations, health), and that staff make their activities efficiently. And finally, in the footwear sector, organize space for work activities (layout), in addition to evaluating personnel through the human talent management tool (360 comprehensive evaluation) and complying with the footwear quality management system.Keywords: Business leadership, manufacturing sector, innovation, strategies, excellence in management.