Run my own small consulting company but largely work with one client (about 3 years). Love working there, love the team, but the leadership is disconnected from reality and my division is extremely strapped with resources and headcount. Probably a 4 to 1 contractor to FTE ratio. Client recently went public and since I’m technically a contractor (grossly misclassified job) I got zero stock/equity incentives. Watched everyone I work side by side with get massive bonuses/stock options/payouts.
I’ve made it no secret I want to be converted to a FTE and be done consulting. Going on three years of this and even their legal department has said my contract is hard to renew each year since my position is misclassified as an “independent contractor.” Starting soliciting job offers end of last year, got a few but nothing really competitive to get me to leave my own business.
Then out of nowhere – WHAM – the opportunity of a lifetime comes in. Pay/benefits/bonus all above market value. Great company with very humble leadership, and the position is part of the global leadership team. I finally told client I’d be putting in my 30 day notice (contractually obligated to give this much) and they’re devastated. I know I’m leaving them in a tough spot as I’ve largely been a unicorn within the organization (but I’ve desperately tried to get more resources without success).
Have to make the decision today, client asked me to wait until they had a chance to counter but there’s no way they’ll ever match the position. Plus how could they possibly match stock options I’ve lost out on for the last 3 years? I’ve decided to go with new role and forgo consulting business, letting my current contracts fizzle out once projects conclude. Possibly hire a replacement at the one big client to at least help fill the void in the interim.
TL:DR Am I crazy for leaving a very lucrative client as a consultant or crazier for passing up a huge opportunity?