[dfcowell]

I've gone from programming to owner of a fledging digital agency and I'm structuring the organisation so that my role as CEO includes sufficient time to be technical mentor to my developers.

So far it is incredibly rewarding. I'm spending less time writing code for projects and more time writing code in group sessions with my team passing on skills. Seeing the team grow and develop is amazing.

I don't know if this approach fits into the traditional management role but if you can make it work, being a multiplying force is tremendously rewarding.

From a monetary perspective I'm doing better than I did so a programmer, but the entrepreneurial path requires a lot of non software related skills and is much higher risk.

[throwaway_105]

What made you take the leap? (from programming to CEO)

[dfcowell]

I got there via freelancing. I was unhappy at a company where the owner was making poor business decisions (in hiring, management and general business direction) and began freelancing in my off hours. Got so much work I had to subcontract it. Realised the potential of the services I was providing and started a company. Just put on my 13th employee and not looking back.

[akulbe]

I would like to talk to you about how you did this. I'm in a bit of a similar situation, and could use some advice.

[dfcowell]

Google my hacker news username. Should be easy enough to get in touch. :)