They're overworked, under appreciated, and mostly not very good at their jobs. Lucy Kellaway asks do we really need managers?

In part two of her series on modern work culture, Lucy Kellaway, columnist for the Financial Times, looks at the much-maligned manager. Wouldn't it be better if we just got rid of them altogether?

Lucy explores the extent to which we workers need structure from the top, or would rather have the freedom to get on with our jobs without constant interference.

We hear from the frontline why it's so tough to manage. Could an Al-Qaeda memo prove the key to why hierarchy is necessary to get things done?

From 17th century pirates to 21st century tech-start ups, Lucy looks at alternative ways of managing organisations and asks whether work would be a happier, more grown-up place if we put them into practice.

Written and presented by Lucy Kellaway

Producer: Gemma Newby
Executive Producer: Russell Finch
A Somethin' Else production for BBC Radio 4. Show less