About me
👋 I’m Djordje, a passionate engineering leader with over 14 years in the industry, dedicated to helping software engineers grow into high-performing professionals and leaders. Throughout my career, I’ve led and mentored over 50 engineers, with almost 50% of them advancing into leadership roles.
I created this newsletter to share actionable EQ insights, leadership strategies, and real-world frameworks to help you level up as an engineering leader.
🧭 My Journey
From a young age, I was drawn to solving complex problems - not just in software but in leadership. After earning my Master’s degree in Software Engineering from the Faculty of Organizational Sciences, I spent over a decade growing from a Software Engineer to a Senior Engineering Manager, working with teams across different industries.
But as I climbed the leadership ladder, I realized something crucial: technical skills alone don’t make great leaders. What truly separates exceptional leaders in our industry is emotional intelligence (EQ) - the ability to understand, connect, and inspire people.
🧠 Why This Newsletter?
The tech industry is full of brilliant engineers who struggle with leadership - not because they lack expertise, but because leadership is about people, not just code.
Throughout my career, I’ve seen talented engineers:
- Struggle to give feedback without damaging relationships.
- Fail to influence decisions without direct authority.
- Burn out from stress and lack of emotional resilience.
I realized that EQ is the missing piece in engineering leadership. It’s what has made me successful, and it’s what I believe can change the way leadership works in our industry.
This newsletter is my mission: to help leaders build emotional intelligence and change how leadership and management are done in tech. Expect practical tips, real-world examples, and proven frameworks to help you lead with confidence, influence, and impact.
🏋️♂️ Beyond Engineering
When I’m not working with teams or writing about EQ, I’m a passionate fitness enthusiast with over 10 years of experience in bodybuilding. I believe that just like leadership, fitness requires discipline, consistency, and a growth mindset.. traits that also make great engineering leaders.
I strive to balance my personal and professional life while continuously learning and growing.
📬 Join Me on This Journey
If you’re looking to develop your leadership skills, improve your EQ, and grow as an engineering leader, I’d love to have you on board. Subscribe to The High-EQ Leader’s Chronicles and let’s grow together!
💼 Work With Me 1:1
If you want to fast-track your leadership growth with tailored, high-impact coaching:
We’ll work together on:
- Improving team performance
- Building your confidence and influence
- Getting promoted faster – without burning out
– Djordje
Founder, The Chronicles of a High-EQ Leader