The study was carried out with the aim of examining the effect of institutional leadership on the quality of educational provision in higher education institutions in Zimbabwe. The study analysed the indicators determining provision of quality higher education in state and private universities and how they are influenced by institutional leadership. The major techniques used were documentary analysis, questionnaires, interviews and direct observation. The results showed that institutional leaders who promote intellectual growth of both staff and students and who create a culture of learning make it easy for their institutions to uphold high quality standards. The study also highlighted the need for an effective national quality assurance agency in making sure institutions are supported in the global quest for quality.