Finding Your Place Without Coding
I once was in an office filled with IT professionals, and the conversation was all about algorithms, data analytics, and cloud stuff. I remember nodding along, but deep down, I was asking myself, “Bukie How did you get into this mix?”. I couldn’t contribute much to the conversation, even for things that were within my job function, because my brain had already shut down. I left that office reflecting and promised myself that it would never repeat itself. And no, I did not rush off to become a junior software engineer; I knew that was not my path. Instead, I focused on understanding how I, as a manager, could strategically align my organisation’s tech initiatives with its goals, even without diving into coding.
Opportunities to Lead in Tech
Recently, we’ve seen the tech landscape expand quickly across regions. While it may be exciting, I also understand how intimidating this can feel for non-technical professionals. If you are wondering where you fit in or how you can stay relevant, let me show you three key areas shaping this space and how non-technical managers and talent can stay in demand.
1. AI and Machine Learning: The invention of the likes of AI, machine learning, quantum computing, robotics, etc. is transforming businesses and industries, from automating customer support to optimising logistics, predicting market trends, and even making the marine industry a lot safer for subsea operations. But something worth noting is that artificial intelligence is only as powerful as the strategy driving it. This is where non-technical managers can step up to align AI applications with business goals.
2. Cloud Services: This is no longer just a fancy term; it has now become the backbone of modern businesses. We’ve seen ex-hardware organisations like Apple and Microsoft now leading in the software industry. From the small startups to big corporations, everyone is storing and processing data in the cloud. If you manage teams or work on processes often, your ability to help your organisation optimise operations with these services will be helpful. You don’t necessarily need to code; you just need to be good at using technology to streamline operations for better service, eliminate internal waste, and improve team performance.
3. Sustainability and Cybersecurity: In the UK, green tech and cybersecurity are two priority areas. Businesses are now embracing more eco-friendly solutions while working to address growing cyber threats. These initiatives, although tech-driven, require strategic leadership to ensure long-term success. So, leaders who can align their organisation’s sustainability and security goals with broader business strategies will play key roles in the coming years.
What’s in It for You?
What is increasingly clear is the global demand for managers who can lead resilient and visionary organisations, and here’s what that could look like for you:
- Shifting to More Strategic Roles: With technology automating routine tasks faster than ever, non-technical roles like customer support, onboarding, sales, and marketing are shifting focus. These positions now demand more strategic thinking and problem-solving rather than repetitive tasks. In 2018, having observed the future trends, I began to shift from customer service operations to business strategy, where I now get to work with executives and cross-functional teams, improve processes using tech solutions, and make business decisions.
- Continuous Professional Development: While you don’t need to become a developer, understanding the basics of AI, data analytics, or even cybersecurity can give you an edge to contribute meaningfully in meetings and decision-making.
- Communicating Effectively: Being able to translate technical concepts into actionable business strategies will be a valuable skill. As an operations leader, I’ve often had to work closely with the IT and data science teams to develop dashboards that helped us proactively engage customers and resolve business problems.
Possible Next Steps to Take
If you are feeling inspired but a bit overwhelmed, here are three practical steps I’ve taken over the years to help navigate the tech industry as a leader.
- Keep abreast of industry and economic changes. You can start by developing a basic understanding of AI and business analytics so you can confidently lead discussions on its business applications.
2. Identify a small, tech-driven process improvement that aligns with your team’s goals, and take the lead in championing it. Demonstrate to your manager how technology can solve internal problems in cost-effective ways.
3. Network more: Build relationships with tech professionals who can teach you the ropes. For instance, connect online with data analytics experts like Emmanuel Olujobi or cybersecurity professionals like Johnson Oshodi Omowumi Akintokun who actively educate their network. Attend meetups, join online communities, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Tech Trends Are for Everyone
The rapid pace of tech innovation is not exclusive to coders and developers. It is also an open door for strategic thinkers, visionary leaders, and those ready to adapt swiftly to change. The truth is, technology alone does not transform businesses, but people do, and as a non-technical manager, you are uniquely positioned to lead business outcomes with the changes in technology.
How are you, as a non-tech manager or managing director, aligning your team with the rapid changes in tech this year? Share your strategies or challenges in the comments, and do repost to help someone benefit from this newsletter.
Until Next Time,
Bukola Osuntuyi.
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Bukola Osuntuyi is a business management leader, global team strategist, and advisor to early-stage tech startups. She specialises in driving business growth, leading innovative changes, and empowering mid-level managers to become impactful organisational leaders.
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