Which theorist proposed that employees with knowledge and expertise, not managers' formal authority derives from their position in the hierarchy, should decide who will lead at any particular moment?

Mary Parker Follett

Explanation:

Considered the "prophet of management," Mary Parker Follett pioneered the concept of circularity in human interaction. She explained that in circular behavior there is, in an open discussion, confrontation and free play in the exposition of ideas. There is the integration of differences, rather than the domination of one idea over the others or the conceding of the parties in the pursuit of an idea common to all. That is, if a conflict arises in a group, the solutions must be found only with the participation of all parties, not through an "adaptation psychology", but through a "psychology of invention".

Follett was the first person to argue that, in a company, employees should excel with knowledge and experience, not with formal managerial authority, derived from their position in the hierarchy.