I would love perspective on my new company and my evolving position.

Anonymous

June 16,2022 at 5:55PM UTC

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I would love perspective on my new company and my evolving position.

I left my former company to work for my new employee under the guidance that after a six-nine month period I would transition into a senior sales leadership role. The transition period was to ensure I had time to meet the team, learn the brands, and provide guidance on some projects I have significant experience running lead, without being thrown into the leadership role. During this time period I've become aware of issues within the organization related to the overall business strategy, personal, and external relationships with our business partners. Prior to starting with the company I believed these sales channels and strategies were functional. I have learned that my initial impression was incorrect and that the company , while doing well, has many areas in which they can improve.

In the last two weeks I've been asked to take on additional projects due to my expertise in other areas as well as continue with the current work. All of which I am happy to do but seem to take me further and further away from the initial role I agreed to when I signed on. I am now at the end of this transition period and am meeting with the CEO shortly to discuss what my "evolving" role will be moving forward. I am conflicted about the meeting and determining my role as I no longer think the initial job is a fit due to the other unresolved issues I've uncovered during my time and am unsure if I am interested in what a new version of the role could be. Is it naive to expect that my role would not evolve due to the circumstances? I believe my management team intentions are honest, but they were unaware of the opportunities I helped them uncover. Looking back, I realize there are different questions I should have asked during the interview process to discern the above information. I am struggling to decide if the above issues are specific to this organization or if I will find it at any organization at this level of leadership. I welcome the feedback and guidance from the community and thank you for the forum to post.

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JJJune 16,2022 at 6:03PM UTC
Companies evolve, often on accident with no clear course. Take the meeting with CEO and see what they have in mind, then take some time to decide what is best for you. Sounds like you are valued but if you’re going in the wrong direction it is reasonable to course correct based on your goals.
AnonymousJune 16,2022 at 7:20PM UTC
It would be rare to find a successful organization that didn't have these challenges. That's business everywhere.
The upside to your situation is that you can probably write your own ticket given the new avenues and methods of business you have uncovered. It sounds as if a senior business development title with a new job description might benefit you more in the long run.
In preparation of your meeting with the CEO I would remain open to his ideas and observations on the business but prepare your own observations as well. I would also consider the titles your would consider and if that would or should include revisiting your comp package with new KPIs.
Crystal HowellJune 16,2022 at 8:08PM UTC
I think a 6 month trial run, should be enough time for both sides to feel each other out.
Honesty is the best option, let the CEO speak first and see where their thoughts are, maybe they tested you to see if you were able to do the extra work without supervision.
Let them speak first, don't attack them on their company, just ask questions instead of statements, like by chance have you thought about this....., or do you think this would work with your culture...., etc. set up for a raise for the next 6 months since you have done someone else's job!!!
IkyJune 16,2022 at 8:26PM UTC
It sounds like you are a capable professional and have been adding great value at your current job.
In my past job experience, there were always challenges I discovered *after* I took the job. Some were more unpleasant than others.
If I were you, I would walk in with the most desirable outcome in mind while keeping an open mind.
What is your career aspiration beyond this company or your current role?
What is the ideal role you want at this company?
While at this company, what can you learn to advance you to the next level in your career?
Remember, you are a valuable asset wherever you go. Good luck with everything. Have an awesome day!