I'm a sys admin in a pretty respectable company that does everything from infrastructure to web site hosting to software development. I have been wanting to move into programming for some time, but due to my lack of experience, I have never made the move. I talked to my manager quite often about this, particularly around moving into the software division of the company. He has always been very supportive and said I should follow my goal and go for it as soon as an opportunity opens up.
Last month, through the recruitment section of our intranet, I found out the software division of the company is hiring junior programmers. I approached the hiring manager, whom I have worked with in some projects previously. He is quite keen to assist me in moving into his division, and told me that he will initiate the move for me with HR. Right after that discussion, I informed my current manager about this.
1 month has passed, and I have heard nothing. Yesterday, I ran into the manager of the software division and I casually asked him about the transfer. He then informed me that my current manager denied the transfer request due to the current and forecast workload in my current team, and thought that I have been informed about this. His story was confirmed by HR.
Needless to say, I am quite disappointed. I really like the people and the company, but this incident has left a sour taste in me. Should I try to convince my manager to allow the transfer? Or should I just move on and look for a programming position despite my lack of experience?