The background of this research is that there are several Principals of State Elementary Schools in Adipala District, Cilacap Regency who have not carried out their duties, principals, and functions properly. This study aims to describe and analyze the leadership process of the Principal of Public Elementary Schools in Adipala District, Cilacap in improving the quality of education through managerial competence. The method used in this research is a qualitative approach to phenomenological studies. The informants in this study were 5 Principals of State Elementary Schools in Adipala District, Cilacap. Data collection techniques used interviews, observations, and documentation studies. Activities in data analysis are data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The results showed that the leadership process of school principals with good managerial competence in improving the quality of education in SD Negeri in Adipala District was seen from the commitment to the school's vision in carrying out its duties and functions, making the school's vision a guide in managing and leading the school, and focusing its activities on learning and teacher performance in the classroom. Principals with poor managerial competence in improving the quality of education at Public Elementary Schools in Adipala District are not carrying out their vision and mission correctly and unable to coordinate teachers and staff in realizing all plans to achieve the school's vision and mission. The Head of the State Elementary School in the Regional Coordinator for Education in the Adipala District with good managerial competence can improve the quality of education in the school he leads.