Empowering Software Engineers and Aspiring Engineering Managers: Insights from Stephane Moreau

In the fast-paced world of tech, the role of an engineering manager is as demanding as it is rewarding. Balancing the needs of people, processes, and projects is no small feat, but Stephane—a seasoned Senior Engineering Manager with a decade of experience—has built a career mastering this art. What Makes a Great Engineering Manager? “At its core, the role of an engineering manager is about creating an environment where engineers can do their best work,” Stephane explains. He emphasizes three pillars: People: Supporting and growing the team by offering guidance, constructive feedback, and opportunities for development. Processes: Refining workflows, fostering effective communication, and optimizing team rituals to drive efficiency. Projects: Aligning technical efforts with business goals while managing stakeholder expectations and removing roadblocks. This holistic approach ensures that teams are not only productive but also engaged and fulfilled in their work. Passion for People and Technology Stephane’s journey into engineering management began early in his career. “Only 2.5 years after moving from Greece, I received an offer for an Engineering Manager role at a leading cybersecurity company,” he recalls. The position was a perfect match for his dual passions: technology and people. “As an engineer, I found joy in creating beautiful products. As an engineering manager, I find joy in creating cohesive, high-performing teams,” Stephane shares. His ability to connect deeply with people, understand their aspirations, and align them with organizational goals has been instrumental in his success. Hybrid Work: The Sweet Spot When asked about the best mode of working, Stephane champions the hybrid model, though it depends on the team’s needs, the nature of the work, and the company culture. “It strikes the right balance between flexibility and collaboration,” he says. Remote work fosters deep focus, while in-office days build stronger connections and a sense of belonging. However, he underscores the importance of intentional communication and inclusivity in hybrid settings. “As a leader, my priority is to ensure every team member feels supported and connected, regardless of where they work. The best mode of work is the one that empowers the team to thrive and deliver their best results,” he notes. Balancing Hiring and Internal Growth For Stephane, hiring is critical to building a strong team, but it’s only one part of the equation. “Hiring alone isn’t enough. Growth and developing people from within are just as important, if not more so, for long-term success,” he explains. “Investing in team members’ development not only boosts morale but also ensures that the team evolves alongside the business.” In Stephane’s experience, a mix of external hiring for fresh perspectives and internal promotions to recognise and nurture talent is the key to a resilient, high-performing team. The DNA of an Effective Software Engineering Team Stephane identifies three elements as essential to building an effective engineering team: Passion: Inspires team members to push boundaries and strive for excellence. Openness and Transparency: Creates a culture of trust and collaboration. Empathy and Self-Awareness: Fosters psychological safety, allowing team members to bring their best selves to work. “These qualities not only attract top talent but also help retain and grow them, creating a team that thrives both individually and collectively,” he says. The Evolving Role of Technology With the rise of Generative AI (GenAI) and Large Language Models (LLMs), the landscape of software engineering is shifting. “Engineers will spend less time coding and more on creative problem-solving, system design, and innovation,” Stephane predicts. He believes these tools enhance productivity but require engineers to sharpen critical thinking and decision-making skills. For engineering managers, the impact is less direct but equally significant. “GenAI can help streamline tasks and processes. However, the core aspects of leadership, building trust, and fostering a strong team culture, will remain human-centric. The key will be understanding how to best integrate these technologies to enhance, not replace, the unique contributions of engineers and managers alike,” he says. Advice for Aspiring Engineering Managers Stephane’s philosophy is rooted in being an active, present leader. “Engineering managers should be integral members of the team, embedded in day-to-day operations,” he advises. Regular one-on-ones are essential for fostering trust, addressing challenges, and supporting career growth. As Stephane puts it, “Our role is to build an environment where every team member feels supported, connected, and empowered to succeed.” Learn More from Stephane For those stepping into their first management role or refining their leadership skills, Stephane’s blog is an invaluable resource. Subscribers gain access to a free Engineering Manager Masterclass and 50 meticulously crafted Notion templates to streamline leadership processes. Ready to take your engineering management skills to the next level? Explore Stephane’s blog and discover a wealth of resources tailored to tech leaders who want to thrive in their roles.