However, I’m only 27. Never been in a management position before, but led and executed on some key projects in my current role and was crucial to growth of a profitable sector of the business for Rainforest. While I do believe this is a great opportunity for career growth, my lack of experience on the management side of the professional world creates some doubt that it’s a good role. It feels like I’m skipping a rung in the ladder, so to speak. I have a clear understanding of what I’d be expected to execute on, and good relationships, but would be inheriting a team of about 5 managers and reports immediately upon joining and expected to set direction, and manage this organization.
For those on HN that have been in a similar position, do you have any advice or input? Books or blogs to read? Thanks in advance!
But I'd like to add a bit of nuance into it too. Be very careful about the real job description and expectations. Being in a VP position without actual institutional support to do your job can be burnout inducing (been there, done that). Make sure to enumerate your duties and your tools. You don't want to be caught managing a metric you can't budge.
Ah, and follow the money. If you can't manage your own branches' budget (at least to some extent), then you should refuse accepting responsibility at that level.
Wonders of middle management, eh?
You would only need to worry if you were actually going to be doing VP-level work - building organizations instead of products. It sounds like you are not expected to be at that level. You just need to run a small existing org, not build out new ones. So just make sure you are able to do the actual job you are getting hired for, and enjoy the nice title.
Managing people, especially tech-minded folks, comes with its own nuances, imho. You are young, but I was running a large division at a big company by the time I was 30. So, it's not crazy.
That said, you're going to make mistakes with people. Hell, I still make mistakes, and I'm middle aged and have run a company. There are many little things to watch out for, but really, they come with experience or shop talk. Small examples might be stuff like, don't go it alone when you fire someone, always have another peer present or there are many personality types to watch out and deal with. I'm still shocked at mid-sized VPs wanting to move up but who will do drugs with their subordinates. Not something I'd ever advise and not executive behavior.
But I would strongly recommend getting with an older mentor who's adept at managing, someone who you can bounce situations and ideas off of, someone you trust with wisdom who doesn't work there. Preferably someone with tech experience would be better, given some of the workplace culture differences. And don't be afraid to read books and articles about how people tick.
You sound like you have a good head on your shoulders. You're already thinking about what it'll take to do right by those around you. That likely puts you ahead of the game.
This is how good day jobs happen.
And this is just a day job.
You can always get another day job.
Good luck.