Engineering Culture by InfoQ

From Code to Strategy: Drive Organizational Impact Through Strategic Conversations and User Focus

6 snips
Jun 27, 2025
Guest
Mark Allen
Mark Allen, Head of Engineering at Isometric and a leader in climate tech, discusses how engineers can extend their influence through strategic conversations and user-focused development. He shares insights on the dual impact of technology, emphasizing its benefits and challenges in addressing climate issues. Mark highlights the significance of engaging in meaningful dialogues and effective mentoring for professional growth. He also underscores the importance of understanding user needs and the role of incident management in fostering team dynamics.
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ADVICE

Step Into Strategic Conversations

  • Identify broader strategic conversations by engaging with your manager and peers about upcoming challenges.
  • Build relationships and develop a strong internal brand by contributing knowledgeably to these topics and saying yes to growth opportunities.
ANECDOTE

Mark's Hands-On User Learning

  • Mark Allen spent time delivering food and interacting with courier operations to deeply understand the users at Glovo.
  • This hands-on experience helped him build strong internal relationships and become the go-to engineering expert in that user area.
ADVICE

Build Strategic Skills Deliberately

  • Develop strategic conversation skills through small, intentional steps and deliberate practice.
  • Seek mentors, teach others, and learn by trying to reinforce and grow these skills effectively.
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