In this episode of Tap’d Talks HR, we welcome back Gary Cookson, founder of Epic HR and author of Making Hybrid Working Work, to discuss his latest book: The Squeezed Middle.
Middle managers sit at the heart of modern organisations – translating strategy, aligning teams, managing ambiguity and carrying the emotional load of change. Yet they are often overlooked, underprepared and the first to face budget cuts.
In this conversation, Gary explores:
- Why the middle manager role has become more complex than ever
- The “invisible work” managers do that never appears in job descriptions
- Why hybrid and remote working have amplified the pressure
- The dangers of flattening organisations too far
- Why middle management is rarely seen as a destination, only a stepping stone
- The skills modern managers need to thrive, from sense-making to emotional intelligence
This episode is a good reminder that sustainable performance depends not just on strong leadership at the top, but on properly supporting the layer in the middle.
You can order a copy of Gary’s book: The Squeezed Middle here.
