Tech layoffs spur AI-augmented 'player-coach' managers

With ongoing tech layoffs and leaner orgs, middle managers are being cut or transformed into hands-on leaders who also supervise AI agents, a move dubbed 'player-coach' or 'megamanager.' Coinbase cut 14% of its staff and said everyone must be an active individual contributor; Gallup data show managers now oversee about 12 workers and often perform IC work (97%), while Indeed reports 12.3% fewer middle-manager roles in 2025, signaling a broader shift toward AI-augmented orgs.