Cynthia Williams

I spent 15 years in senior engineering leadership roles at Facebook, LinkedIn, and Pinterest. I managed teams, built systems, hired and promoted engineers, and dealt with the real pressure that comes with high-stakes environments. On paper, things were going well. In reality, I saw the same patterns over and over. Smart, capable engineers getting stuck. New managers are struggling without support. People are burning out, doubting themselves, or quietly disengaging because they did not know how to navigate the system. I eventually stepped away from corporate leadership because I realized the part of the work I cared about most was not the systems or the metrics. It was helping people think clearly, regulate under pressure, and make intentional decisions about their careers. I coach engineers and engineering managers who want practical, honest guidance. Not generic leadership advice. Not hustle culture. Real conversations about expectations, power dynamics, communication, confidence, and growth. My approach is structured and direct. We focus on what is actually happening in your role, what is getting in your way, and what specific changes will move you forward. I draw on my experience as a leader inside big tech, along with formal coaching training, to help you build clarity and momentum without burning yourself out. If you are looking for someone who understands both the technical and human sides of engineering leadership and who will tell you the truth without judgment, that is how I work.