What To Do When Someone Is Hired Above You
Briefly

A senior marketing strategist at an e-commerce brand, Lila was instrumental in the company's growth. Her partnership with the CEO revolved around campaign launches and brand messaging. However, during a meeting, the CEO announced hiring a chief marketing officer, reshaping Lila's role and responsibilities. Lila faced the daunting reality of 'layering', a process where new management is introduced above existing roles. Such changes, while strategic for organizational growth, can lead to complex emotions like frustration and confusion for those affected.
"Your work has been incredible," the CEO said to Lila, "but we need someone with global leadership experience for this next chapter. This isn't about your skills - it's about where the company is headed."
Lila was experiencing layering, when additional management is introduced between you and your current reporting line. In practice, it means someone is hired or promoted into a role above you, becoming your new direct supervisor.
As operations become more complex, organizations need to bring in experienced leaders to navigate uncharted territory. But let's be honest: knowing it's a business decision doesn't make it any easier to process when it's happening to you.
The emotions can be overwhelming - frustration, confusion, even resentment. If you've found yourself in this situation, you're not alone.
Read at Forbes
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