The HBR article is about a team of managers reporting to their boss, middle and senior management. At that level, they are presumed to have some sort of abilit

The HBR article is about a team of managers reporting to their boss, middle and senior management. At that level, they are presumed to have some sort of ability to effect change and hence have empowerment. They are also expected to step up and proactively manage their circumstances if things change or get out of kilt. The article is not that revelationary, I've seen similar ones in other management journals. I agree with you and the people replying to you for a team of workers reporting to their manager.