Hi everyone,

I have enjoyed this community quietly for some time and thought I would throw it out there for next steps. I provided my background below, and what my goals are, and would love to hear what others think. Not exactly a conversation you can have with your senior leadership at work.

I worked in higher education for about 20 years in a few roles (not teaching). I left the public sector 6 years ago and now work in HR for a large global company. HR is my chosen career path both from experience and school and I do have a passion for it. I earned my MBA 12 years ago, and have HR certifications as well.

I have worked in specialized roles in HR, and now am a manager in our Talent/Recruting team. With 6 years under my belt at this employer in these two roles, I am looking for what is next.

Do I pivot to roles as a HRBP, HR manager or something else. Our employer's culture is open and there is growth opportunity but it seems to be limited. There also have been some leadership changes in the last year regionally that makes me question sticking around.

However, at 46, I feel I can’t wait around for 2-3 years in hopes of an internal opening or promotion. I have returned a few calls/emails from headhunters but nothing jumped out just yet. I feel my direct HR leadership is great and encourages growth, but starting to question this. There may be an opportunity for an expat assignment in a couple of years as well.

If you were in my shoes at 46, how would you approach this? Do you have those conversations with your leadership? Do you accept that invite to coffee or lunch with a headhunter? I feel my next role is critical to my future career growth, both from a trajectory perspective and an earnings perspective.

Would love your thoughts.