Here’s a buzzy tag for Gen Z's growing resistance to traditional middle management roles - 'conscious unbossing'. Apparently 52% of them are actively avoiding these positions. 

However, this generation isn't rejecting leadership entirely – instead, they're redefining it, preferring expertise over hierarchical authority.

Research shows Gen Z views middle management as high-stress and unrewarding, characterised by endless meetings and complex team dynamics. Instead, 72% favour career advancement through developing specialist knowledge and personal brands.

This shift presents something of a challenge for organisations' succession-planning endeavours. Because to attract mercurial young talent, companies will increasingly need to create alternative leadership pathways that emphasise expertise, project leadership and meaningful impact – without the traditional management burdens.