The Promotion Paradox
You got promoted because you were strategic. Now you spend all your time on tactical work.
The Trap
Before Promotion: Strategic thinker. Big picture focus.
After Promotion: Report consolidator. PowerPoint builder.
Break the Cycle
Automate the tactical. Reclaim the strategic.
Be Strategic Again
Focus on portfolio direction, not slide formatting.
Mentor Your Team
Spend time developing PMs, not editing their decks.
Get Promoted Again
Show strategic value. Not just execution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Breaking the tactical trap
QHow did I end up spending all my time on slides?
It happens gradually. One consolidation task becomes the norm. Before you know it, you're the human PowerPoint machine. It's not your fault, but it is your problem to solve.
QWill delegating this work to AI look like I'm not doing my job?
No. Successful directors are measured by outcomes, not hours worked. Spending time on strategy and team development is exactly what you should be doing.
QHow do I explain this change to my team?
Frame it as giving them better tools. They keep their PMs, you're just making consolidation instant instead of manual. Everyone wins.
QWhat should I do with the recovered time?
Strategic planning. Stakeholder relationships. Team development. The things that got you promoted—and will get you promoted again.
Break the Paradox
You were promoted for a reason. Get back to being that person.