Ask the headhunter

M.M. asks:

I started my career three decades ago as a technical lead at a distinguished research institute, focusing on integrated circuits for both optical fiber and satellite communication systems. I then transitioned to academia, embracing the opportunity to lecture and mentor doctoral candidates at a technical university. Subsequently, I dedicated several years to a prominent technology firm, contributing to the development of intellectual property for broadband cable and home networking solutions. My expertise deepened, particularly in the realm of energy-efficient wireless technologies. My prior role was senior director at a semiconductor enterprise, where I spearheaded a large, multidisciplinary hardware team focused on wireless technologies for a global clientele. Currently, I serve as the VP of engineering at a deeptech startup in Munich. Throughout my professional journey, I’ve been instrumental in over thirty successful CMOS IC tape-outs, culminating in the shipment of more than one billion SoCs.

I’m now seeking to continue my career in the Netherlands. The weekly separation between my wife’s residence there and my professional life in Munich presents a significant challenge to our marriage, one that I’m no longer willing to sustain. While my wife has graciously visited me on numerous occasions and we’ve enjoyed delightful holidays in Bavaria, our current family circumstances preclude a permanent relocation. My parents are facing health issues and we desire to be closer to them.

The prospect of leaving my current role is daunting. Despite my relatively short tenure, I find the work engaging and have cultivated strong relationships with several colleagues. However, the expectation of a five-day in-office presence comes across as somewhat incongruous to me, given that the rest of the management team is often absent for extended periods and one MT member (who, notably, resides in Munich) consistently works remotely. Furthermore, a considerable number of technical specialists benefit from highly flexible WFH arrangements. For me, a single day of remote work would entail a minimum of eight hours of travel each way, rendering it impractical. What would you advise me to do?

The headhunter answers:

It’s rather unfortunate that you’re already experiencing doubts about your decision after such a brief period. The imbalance between your professional and personal life and the perceived inconsistencies in workplace privileges appear to be your key concerns. Regarding both issues, it’s worth considering whether they’re self-imposed perceptions, and if perhaps your colleagues hold different expectations. I can imagine they might be quite surprised to learn that these are your reasons for considering a departure.

Undoubtedly, a range of compelling alternatives exists for you, and I anticipate a successful transition within 2-3 months. However, before actively pursuing external opportunities, I strongly recommend initiating a conversation with your direct supervisor to articulate your discomfort. They would likely be keen to retain you and many of your responsibilities could potentially be managed hybridly from home. You might also explore the possibility of a reduced in-office presence, perhaps two weeks per month or even less, aligning with the schedules of other team members.

Moreover, when engaging with other companies, it will be crucial to carefully frame your motivation and rationale for seeking a career change. You made the initial decision to work abroad and it now appears as though you may not have fully anticipated the inherent consequences, despite their apparent predictability.