In a larger piece citing the numerous challenges that hit large tech companies over time, Jean-Louis believes that having more Product Managers is a big contributor to the "loss of meaning syndrome":"

"On paper, the role looks logical, almost unavoidable.

In theory, the Product Manager coordinates, harmonizes.

There are market requirements, engineering feasibility, supply-chain availability and financial considerations to meld together..."

"...in the evolving management of a product project. Very logical, orderly, looks could (sic) on a Board Presentation slide.

What could go wrong? Human nature.

Who’s really responsible, who gets or loses meaning?"

"My own — and not necessarily shared belief — is the engineering lead ought to stay in charge and be judged on their project’s overall fitness to the company’s business."

"Injecting a Product Manager’s ego and lesser technical knowledge in the mix only muddies the waters.

An admittedly naive perspective — but one stemming from a life in the Valley."

From Gassèe's @Medium piece – https://medium.com/monday-note/ceos-writing-three-envelopes-6a95d015fbc4