Introduction: Top-level managers in municipal social care administration play a central role in ensuring high-quality care through coordination within and between organisations. However, there is limited understanding of the specific tasks and responsibilities they undertake in this regard. Therefore, this study aimed to explore municipal top-level managers’ perspectives on fostering safe and integrated care for older adults with complex care needs living at home.

Methods: Thirteen top-level managers in municipal social care administration were interviewed. Interview data were analysed thematically.

Results: One theme ‘Leading through trust and empowerment, and encouraging collaborations within and between organisations to foster safe and integrated care’ and five subthemes were identified: ‘Creating conditions for seamless care by minimising cross-organisational barriers’, ‘Using the mandated role when navigating the bigger picture’, ‘Empowering middle managers and nursing staff’, ‘Fostering trust in working towards a common goal’ and ‘Leveraging successful partnerships across organisations’.

Conclusion: Top-level managers see themselves as parts of a larger system that requires them to collaborate with others. Empowering middle managers and nursing staff to thrive in their roles, through leadership based on trust, promotes a unified effort toward the common goal of safe and integrated care for older adults with complex care needs.