This research explores the role of leadership in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which is important to look at the local government level. The purpose of this study is to examine the innovation of regional leaders in the implementation of Salatiga City development. This research method is literature review, observation, and in-depth interviews. The results show that leadership performance encourages the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals through a series of programs as outlined in the Regional Action Plan (RAD). Salatiga City development policy innovations associated with SDGs focus on the 8th goal of SDGs, namely Decent Work and Economic Growth, the 11th goal, namely Sustainable Cities and Communities, and the 16th goal, namely Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. The role and leadership style of the Mayor of Salatiga City in implementing policies or programs that are in line with the achievement of SDGs in Salatiga City leads to a combination transactional and transformational leadership style.

Keywords: leadership, SDGs implementation innovation, community participation.