Medical Device: Technical or Sales?
I am seeking opinions and experience from all of you regarding a major career decision. For background I am currently 2nd level technical support for our clinical team reporting to a manager and work under the clinical product manager.
I have been working one disciple for 3 years and recently being shifted to another. The promotion pathway to product manager is not promised or guaranteed. As my manager says there is no crystal ball but to trust the process and keep working towards it. Even if I was promoted the pay would be equal the sales position below.
Now a sales position has opened with a much smaller territory and a team of 7 clinical/sales specialists. I currently now support clinical for Canada, US, and Latin America as 2nd level. The sales position is for Central US only. The sales position is approx 30k higher base not including sales percentage. I have been already filling this role and enjoy the sales aspect, mostly concerned over impact to the business.
My fear with the sales position is larger team, I.e less visability and ownership of a product line strategy.
The main question is:
Should I be patient and wait to see if a product manager realizes in 1-2 years? If not then make a move if one is available.
What is the best career move? Ultimate goal is director/leadership and product marketing driving strategy.
Has anyone been in similar situation and regretted the decision or loved the decision?
Happy to answer any question or DMs if prefer.
Thank you in advance!