Design Managers Shortage Intensifies as Senior ICs Choose Individual Contributor Lanes

Design · 5 min read

Across industries, experienced designers are opting to remain ICs to avoid administrative overhead and preserve hands-on craft, contributing to a scarcity of seasoned design managers. Organizations increasingly find themselves with talented senior ICs but gaps in people leadership and strategic organizational design.

In response, companies are rethinking manager job descriptions, splitting functions into 'design program lead' and 'craft lead' roles to attract candidates who want to avoid the full weight of traditional management. Firms also report investing more in leadership training and mentorship programs to cultivate managers internally.

Candidates evaluating manager roles should probe for clarity on time spent in people work versus craft, available executive support, and compensation for the managerial responsibilities that are being added without commensurate pay rises.