Middle managers are not struggling because they cannot handle the pressure. They are struggling because the structure they are working inside was never designed to hold what it is now carrying. That is a different problem than most organizations are trying to solve.

Most organizations say succession planning is critical. Most also have no plan. That gap is not a mystery. It is what happens when organizations react to transitions instead of preparing for them.

How I Helped an Emerging Leader Navigate Cultural Barriers and Position for Advancement Another Perspective BACKGROUND Not every engagement starts with a clearly defined problem. Some start with a person. My client, whom I will call Marcus, is an operations professional at a regional operations company. Family-owned. Over 25 years in business. Strong external reputation built on compliance excellence and community investment. And quietly in the middle of a leadership tran