# JadDeeb's Manager Readme

**Technical Director at Jin&Jaw**

# Motivation for this document

The Manager README is an interesting concept introduced to me by a great and wise colleague. Similar to a software README, my aim is to give you a more human-readable breakdown of my role, how I approach and solve problems, and how I work with and lead a team.

If your personal experience of working with me differs from what you read here, please tell me. That would be a valuable opportunity for reflection and growth.

# My role

I build human-friendly tech, and tech-friendly teams.&nbsp;

# But what do I actually do ?

I'm a Technical Artist by trade, my experience lies in uncomplicating complicated&nbsp;systems and ensuring that artists, or anyone, really, can wield the great power of technology. My main areas of expertise are Unreal Engine and modelling pipelines across games, cinematics, and virtual production

I encourage people to take ownership of systems while also experimenting, getting their hands dirty, and learning about areas beyond their usual responsibilities.

I demystify technology for artists. I believe anyone can become a jack-of-all-trades, and I’ll be there to guide you through that transition.

I provide guidance and establish “Golden Paths” for development, while creating space for the rest of the team to contribute their ideas and experience. There is often an even better “Diamond Path” hiding in someone else’s head.

I delegate responsibilities clearly and make sure every meeting ends with specific action points assigned to specific people.

# What do I value most?

Communication.  
  
Deadlines are a social construct, really. If you don’t think you can deliver something on time, that’s absolutely fine,just let me know well in advance so I can call in support pronto.  
  
I value ownership, honesty, curiosity, and people who are willing to share what they know. You don’t need to have every answer, but you should be comfortable asking questions, raising concerns, and helping the team find a better solution.

# My Expectations

We work in tech. It is almost never the end of the world.

If you make a mistake or realise you can’t deliver something, just reach out. We’ll work through it together. I expect you to be honest, open, and ready to receive feedback.

Don’t beat around the bush. If there’s a problem or something you don’t agree with, lead with it. We don’t need filler conversation to soften every concern. If you believe a system is wrong, difficult to use, or needs to be binned, make that loud and clear. The first step towards improving something is understanding what’s wrong with it.

You have working hours for a reason. Unless I’m begging you to help with a deadline that management or I have mismanaged, please switch off and rest properly. You’re an important part of my team, and a friend. Being in tip-top shape requires proper rest.

Document, discuss, then act. When developing interconnected systems, the team needs to be on the same page. Please don’t work in a silo. We’re a team, and isolated decisions often create technical debt that everyone else has to deal with later.

Challenge my decisions, often. I’m not the next Steve Jobs. If you have a better idea, write it down, bring it to the team, and let’s discuss it. That’s how we build kick-ass systems and workflows.

# 1:1s

I’m always a message away. Whether you need technical support, artistic guidance, a manager, or simply a friend to talk to, you have my Discord and my phone number. Don’t hesitate to reach out.

Formal 1:1s are your time. They don’t need to be limited to status updates or immediate tasks. We can use them to discuss challenges, feedback, career development, ideas, or anything else that would help you do your best work.

# Personality quirks

Being overly “professional” or “put-together” isn’t something I hold myself or my team to. We work in technology and entertainment; there’s no need for unnecessary corporate mumbo-jumbo. Be respectful, be honest, and be yourself.

As mentioned above, I’m direct. My instinct is often to identify what could be improved and offer critique before acknowledging the great work that has already been done. If that approach doesn’t work for you, please tell me. I’m happy to adapt my communication style to help you work at your best.

