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Episode Summary

Cbass is back for another episode of Open Source CXO, but this time we’re digging into data points and metrics that matter! Sebastian shares his experiences and strategies for effective team management as he follows a very objective, data-based approach. From his journey at Aware3 to his current role at Nelnet, Sebastian provides a deep dive into the metrics that matter, such as deployment frequency, code coverage, and customer-detected bugs.

Sebastian elaborates on the evolution of his management style, emphasizing the importance of coaching and the role of metrics in driving performance. He discusses the challenges and rewards of integrating startups into larger corporate structures and maintaining a high-performance team. His insights into the importance of tenure, equitable compensation, and the retention of employees through engagement and purpose are invaluable for any engineering leader.

Tune in to gain practical advice on managing technical teams, fostering a no-blame culture, and leveraging networks for personal and professional growth. This episode is packed with actionable insights and thought-provoking discussions on how to excel in engineering leadership.

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Open Source CXO is proudly presented by Active Logic - https://activelogic.com/

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About Our Guest

Sebastian Kline is a seasoned engineering leader with extensive experience in driving high-performance teams and strategic initiatives, currently serving as the Vice President of Engineering at Nelnet Community Engagement. Over his six-year tenure, he has successfully led nine engineering teams, developed innovative solutions across fundraising, payment processing, and mobile app development, and spearheaded efforts to enhance customer engagement and operational efficiency. Sebastian is passionate about fostering a customer-centric approach, ensuring regulatory compliance, and nurturing talent through mentorship and internship programs.

Previously, Sebastian advanced from a software engineer to a technical lead at aware3, where he significantly improved code quality and team productivity through the implementation of automated testing and design systems. He played a crucial role in the company's acquisition by Nelnet, demonstrating his ability to scale teams and processes effectively. Known for his blend of technical, business, and people skills, Sebastian continues to seek new challenges and opportunities to craft high-performing organizations.

Episode Chapters

  • 00:00:00 - Episode Introduction

    • Introduction to the Open Source CXO podcast episode.

  • 00:00:50 - Measuring Metrics That Actually Matter

    • Discussion on the importance of metrics in tracking performance, the pitfalls of focusing solely on velocity, and the role of coaching in management.

  • 00:07:13 - The Importance of a Strong Network for Career Growth

    • Importance of networking for career growth and the value of being a connector. Sebastian's personal experiences with network marketing and how it has influenced his career approach.

  • 00:14:38 - Continuous Improvement via Quality Assurance

    • Role of QA in maintaining high product quality and minimizing bugs. Discussion on tracking customer-detected bugs versus internally found bugs and the importance of retrospectives for continuous improvement.

  • 00:20:28 - The Growing Pains of Leadership & Conclusion

    • Sebastian's journey overcoming imposter syndrome, earning respect at a young age, and the importance of creating a no-blame culture. Reflections on personal growth and learning from past mistakes.