From Developer to Tech Leader: Embracing the Role of the Conductor

Signal Boost: I Am the Black Gold of the Sun, Nuyorican Soul
A track full of warmth, depth, and quiet power. It captures the feeling of leading from behind the scenes, supporting others to shine, and staying true to your purpose.

For most of my career, I’ve built things. Code, systems, solutions. I could point to the outcome and say, “I made that.” I could physically see it and it felt clear, tangible, and satisfying.

In my experience, leadership doesn’t work the same way.

These days, I’m not writing code or designing architecture. And for a while, I found that difficult. Because I wasn't building physical applications, I didn’t always know how to measure my impact, and that opened the door to self-doubt.

When I brought this up with my coach, Tamara Phelan, she offered a metaphor:

“Don't you see? You’re the conductor in a philharmonic orchestra.”

At first, I wasn’t sure what to make of it. But the more we explored it together, the more it resonated.

You Don’t Have to Play Every Instrument

The team is the orchestra. Each person brings their own skills and their own rhythm. Some are ready to lead from the front, others are still developing, but everyone has a role to play.

My job is to shape the structure and create the space for that to happen. I help set the tempo. I bring clarity. I make sure people have what they need to do their best work.

I own the vision and strategy, which is the equivalent of the sheet music. Then I help keep us aligned and focused.

But unlike a traditional conductor, I often face out towards the audience.

Looking Outwards

In my world, the audience is the business. They’re the reason we’re here.

Understanding what matters to them, what they’re experiencing, and what a good outcome looks like—that’s where a lot of my focus goes. Then I bring that understanding back to the team and help us make decisions that reflect it.

It’s not about telling people what to do. It’s about giving them purpose, direction, and confidence.

Leading is a Privilege

Over time, I’ve had to shift my mindset. I’ve come to realise that leadership is not about having all the answers or being the most technical person in the room. It’s about showing up. Every day. With clarity, honesty, and a willingness to learn.

It’s about creating a sense of purpose and giving others the space to contribute in their own way.

Being in this role is a privilege, and I never want to take that for granted.

Imposter Syndrome and Turning Up Anyway

There are still days where I question whether I’m doing enough. But when that voice creeps in, I remind myself:

I turn up for my team.

They’re one of the reasons I keep going. Seeing them grow, collaborate, and succeed helps me maintain my focus.

What It All Comes Down To

Great teams are built around purpose. They aren’t made up of people who all think the same way or work in the same style. They need different perspectives and complementary strengths.

My role is to shape an environment where that can flourish. One that’s focused, inclusive, and energised by a shared goal.

When it works, it feels effortless. Everyone plays their part, and the magic flows.