Questionable Advice: “My boss says we don’t need any engineering managers. Is he right?"
This article discusses the necessity of engineering managers in a startup. The writer addresses a VP of Engineering at a startup with about 40 engineers, organised into small teams led by lead engineers primarily focused on coding. The CEO, a former engineer, opposes hiring engineering managers, viewing them as unnecessary overhead. The article argues that hierarchy, often misunderstood and misused, is crucial for the adaptability, efficiency, and scalability of organisations. It also emphasises the distinct roles and benefits of engineering managers in coordinating teams, managing information, and focusing on organisational goals, highlighting that effective management is key to avoiding organisational debt and ensuring productivity.
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