ABSTRACT First‐time managers have received limited attention in academic research, with only a few studies appearing over the years in human resource development and related fields. Today, generation Z has entered the workforce, and many of them are being promoted to management. Therefore, our study explored the transition to the management process for generation Z employees. We interviewed 12 representatives of this cohort and analyzed the data using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. The findings suggest that the transition for first‐time managers from generation Z has five facets that can be divided into two groups: dispositional and situational. Additionally, the study offers important insights into the transformation of professional identity during this transition, highlighting the significant roles of values and proactive behaviours. We conclude with a discussion of the theoretical and practical implications of our findings, as well as suggestions for future research.