This piece, originally published on Kapitalis, focuses on the essential role of a manager. It asserts that a key function of leadership is protecting team members from external pressures and challenges. Crucially, this protection extends to assuming responsibility for the team’s collective mistakes when facing outside scrutiny. The manager acts as a buffer, shielding the team from negative consequences. This demonstrates a core element of legitimate authority: accepting accountability. The article highlights that true leadership isn’t about individual success, but about supporting and defending those being led. Ultimately, a manager's duty is to stand by their team, even – and especially – when things go wrong.