I *want* a lot of stuff that not only do I not *need*, but are often *bad for me*.

A manager's job is not to write code, manage networks, etc. They need enough know-how (and it doesn't even have to be first hand!) to understand and support the tech team. Their job is to *manage*.

These folks aren't asking for a "manager" they are asking for a "tech lead".

Do they want someone who knows how to interview and hire great teammates, or someone who can be a great teammate? Who serves their interests better?

Tech and management desperately needed to be treated as entirely separate tracks. Yes, some engineers end up making great managers. Most end up making terrible managers. And it doesn't help that orgs usually put $0 and 0 hours into training people for management.

J.Ja