Advice for new directors

This article offers a nuanced roadmap for engineering leaders transitioning into director roles, revealing the critical shift from direct management to leading through organizational systems and managers. The author provides deeply practical insights, such as the importance of "sensing your organization" and understanding that "you do most of your work through others," helping new directors navigate the complex landscape of leadership at a higher organizational level. By emphasizing skills like systems thinking, developing managers, and maintaining organizational observability, the piece serves as an essential guide for leaders seeking to transform their approach and maximize their impact.