• We need talented coders to solve tough problems, and we need average programmers to tackle mundane tasks

    And if the manager is worth anything, the average programmers will be picking up tips from the talented ones in order to improve their skills (because thge manager will have spotted the average ones and set aside some time for them to be trained/improve their skills/learn new skills).

    At which point, they pass on the tips and you begin all over again.