To be a leader in the supporting role.

I am always surprised when you hear the nominees for best supporting actor or actress.  It seems without fail one of those names will be a big time actor who has carried his/her own film at one point in their career. I always think how or why did they decide on doing that role and not asking for the lead.

I think the answer is that they did lead.  You don't have to be in charge to be the leader.  A leader is a person with character who is willing to do what it takes to help fulfill the objectives of his/her team.

If you are not necessarily the top person in your company or department, you can still lead by helping that person and supporting them as much as you possibly can.

Quote for reference:
 There are two ways of reflecting light: be the candle or be the mirror reflects it.
                                         -Edith Wharton-