The current study builds on earlier leader succession research, focusing on a school where the "insider"--who was believed to be strong before being hired as the formal school leader--drew sharp criticism after assuming the principalship. Interviews with staff members who worked with the insider leader in her role as teacher and principal were analyzed to examine changes in their perceptions of her. Results suggest that the leader did not change; rather, perceptions of her leadership effectiveness changed once she assumed the role of principal. The staff believed that the insider would continue to act like a peer, and when she did not, their perceptions of her effectiveness as a leader were negatively affected.