Depends on what you consider management. A people manager is a different set of skills than a product manager or tech lead, for example. It also depends on the

Depends on what you consider management. A people manager is a different set of skills than a product manager or tech lead, for example. It also depends on the company. Some orgs let you level up past senior to principal/staff/partner without becoming a manager. Others reserve those titles for leadership roles. In my org, there are seniors who are old and gray happily cranking out code and having fun with their job. They’re clearly happy not stepping into the realm of management, because they’re still well-compensated and their stress levels are low without the added responsibility. Your career is what you make it. I’d suggest focusing on what you want to do, as long as you’re content with your position.