This reflection centres on how existing tensions in academic development work were magnified and challenged as competing imperatives sought to (re)define the roles of academic developers at a UK university during the pandemic in 2020. In a situation of heightened anxiety amongst all stakeholders, issues relating to professional agency, expertise, and pedagogic approaches surfaced. This resulted in a delicate 'tightrope walk' of fulfilling obligations as defined by senior leadership and academic colleagues whilst asserting an authentic and compassionate approach that was true to professional values, experience, and expertise.