I was in split mind whether to write this review or not, but then I figured i probably should, it might benefit some aspirants. So, here it goes..
The recruiting team was good and organized. I had some good conversations with the HM and the business leads. I could totally tell that the business needs a leader who can listen to their technology needs, a fresh vision and an architectural overhaul. I knew it was a challenge I have seen and solved at multiple organizations and was up for it .
Moved on to the final round, met with some great people and was starting to feel excited and ready, but then I was put in a discussion with a mid-level integration developer. Soon into our discussion, and totally unexpected, he started showing a feeling of insecurity and concerned that this leadership role would bring change and cause disruption for him. He became defensive to the tool and the solution he had built. The integration practice is very immature and broken (they don't even have a source control, really!!) and the business is hurting.
I was so surprised and taken aback and am thinking to myself.. one, why and what am I having a discussion about with this guy? What is the purpose for having him on the panel?
And second, why and how can we let tools and systems define our architecture and strategy, so foundationally irrational!
Anyways, company needs to pay attention to the interview panel and ensure alignment with the goal and objective of the role. For this specific role, doesn't seem like the team is ready for the change and they should probably hire a senior engineer in the tool that they use.
Selfishly thinking, I feel lucky that I did not take it up and saved myself from what would have been an unfruitful journey for an unwelcome change.