They are paid more because they are multipler. They represent the department. Speaking to this one person I can get the whole department to do something. When something goes wrong that person has to answer for it.

On a typical day a software manager does work their boss assigns them and answers your questions/queries from other departments.

- Provide status updates to bosses. Reports / presentations in regards to department goals. - They watch over the developers/leads make sure they are productive / issues handled - They attend other department meetings, vendor meetings - They read over everything and provide signoff - They attend community events and represent the department

Every place is different. A manager could be a lead and expected to jump in and code. A manager could be an office manager or a project manager or a product owner as well.

Does that help? They manage the department.. ensure resources are in place.

One of the crappier roles. Very little power, low respect from above or below. Slightly higher pay in general but not uncommon to be the lowest paid in the department.

Give your manager a high five once in awhile. They do a lot to make your life easier.