One of the best combinations I have seen was with hierarchies that allowed for two people at the “top” of the local hierarchy. One who is more of a generalist and people manager, with the other being an experienced technical SME.
I do not like arrangements I have seen with how that division works with EMs and PMs.
EMs, from my experience, become too far removed from the technical work and too involved with people management.
PMs many times are not necessarily good people leaders OR technical leaders.
Not to say I have not met some truly great PMs and EMs, as well as teams where both people in those roles just clicked. But it was not as a matter of organization, and more because they were exceptional people who would excel in any organizational structure.
I do not like arrangements I have seen with how that division works with EMs and PMs.
EMs, from my experience, become too far removed from the technical work and too involved with people management.
PMs many times are not necessarily good people leaders OR technical leaders.
Not to say I have not met some truly great PMs and EMs, as well as teams where both people in those roles just clicked. But it was not as a matter of organization, and more because they were exceptional people who would excel in any organizational structure.