This is all true, but reads more like a PM-type role, which is absolutely critical. I understood GP's point as more directed towards "pure Eng. manager" type p

This is all true, but reads more like a PM-type role, which is absolutely critical. I understood GP's point as more directed towards "pure Eng. manager" type positions, often when there's also already a PM present. And I've witnessed first hand how his criticism rings true in that case.