What is an Engineering Manager? – Amy Phillips

Engineering managers play a crucial role in tech teams, blending technical expertise with people management to foster team growth and productivity. They focus on hiring engineers, enhancing their skills, and may also engage in coding, architecture, strategy, and delivery. For example, engineering managers adopt various styles, such as the Tech Lead Manager, who prioritizes coding, and the People Manager, who emphasizes team management. Key points include: - Engineering management is increasingly vital in tech teams. - Engineering managers typically have a technical background. - Responsibilities include hiring, mentoring, coding, and strategy. - Four distinct styles exist based on focus areas: - Tech Lead Manager: prioritizes coding and technical leadership. - Architectural Lead Manager: concentrates on design and technical direction. - People Manager: focuses on team growth and management. - Team Lead Manager: balances team health and productivity with strategic goals.