Why tech leaders are writing code again
Tech executives are increasingly returning to hands-on coding as AI tools make software development more accessible and urgent. Leaders argue that staying close to the 'build' process is essential for innovation and maintaining a competitive edge.
Why it matters
This trend reflects how AI is changing the role of management in tech companies, emphasizing technical literacy over pure administration.
Reza Khadjavi, CEO of Motion, said he feels an urgency to build. Courtesy of Reza Khadjavi A number of tech leaders say they are spending less time managing and more time building. Returning to coding isn't only about rediscovering a passion — it's helping drive innovation, they say. A former Shopify CTO said he loves the energy of "hands on keyboard." Jean-Michel Lemieux missed building things with people . The former chief technology officer at Shopify served on boards and dabbled in VC work, yet said that leadership alone left him too far removed from the work. "I'm in these board meetings, and it feels like I'm a coach of a pro team, but I can't see them play the game," Lemieux, 54, said. He said he loves the energy of "hands on keyboard." So, these days, he's working at Spellbook, which makes an AI copilot for lawyers.
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