The article deals with the problem of university professor leadership qualities in conditions of e-learning. The purpose of this study was to determine the leadership qualities of a university professor that are in demand in e-learning, according to the students. The main method of research was a survey of students aimed at identifying their attitude to e-learning, and their opinions on the necessary leadership qualities of the university professor in the condition of e-learning. The respondents were 146 undergraduate students enrolled in teacher training programs at the Smolensk State University. The study shows the relationship between the presence of leadership qualities in the university professor and the positive attitude of students to e-learning. The most important qualities of a university professor in conditions of e-learning, according to students, are highlighted. The authors emphasize the importance of developing professors' leadership qualities as an important factor in quality education at the university. © The Authors, published by EDP Sciences, 2020.