Do you really know? What is a ‘sandwich employee’?
Mar 26, 2026
A quick look at the strain on middle managers who are squeezed between executives and teams. Covers rising burnout risk, especially for younger managers. Lists telltale signs like irritability and attention problems. Explains why the term fits and suggests ways to ease the pressure on those balancing multiple roles.
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Middle Managers Face High Burnout Rates
- Middle managers often experience role strain because they must balance team needs with upper management demands.
- Amber Minogue cites a 2021 Gallup study: 70% of middle managers feel overwhelmed, rising to 75% for those under 35.
Burnout Manifests In Emotional And Cognitive Signs
- Burnout shows up as irritability, agitation, fixation on work, feelings of failure, attention problems, or substance abuse.
- Amber Minogue references psychologist Lauren Appio explaining managers may have prestigious titles but lack influence or resources to do their jobs well.
Why The Term Sandwich Employee Fits Managers
- The term sandwich employee evolved from caregivers squeezed between children and ageing parents to managers squeezed between executives and teams.
- Amber Minogue explains this positional squeeze creates emotional and professional strain requiring support or role redefinition.