Experienced IT Pro (13 YoE, GRC, Dev, Cloud) seeks pragmatic career change from tech.

A 32-year-old with a wealth of IT experience across various domains, from client systems and platform software development to network and cloud engineering, data operations, SOC, security engineering, and GRC, currently earning over $120k, is eager to leave the tech industry and is looking for practical next steps. The suggestion is to explore patent law, which could offer a starting salary of around $200k.

Possible Job Opportunities:

• Patent Law (Patent Agent/Attorney): This role capitalizes on deep technical expertise. It typically requires a STEM undergraduate degree for a patent agent or a law degree for an attorney. The earning potential is high.
• Management/Leadership in Non-Tech Sectors: Roles like IT Director, Head of Cybersecurity, or Chief Compliance Officer in industries such as finance, healthcare, manufacturing, or government, where extensive GRC and security experience can be valuable.
• GRC/Cybersecurity/IT Strategy Consulting: Advising diverse organizations, allowing a move away from internal tech company roles while still leveraging core expertise.
• Technical Program/Project Management in Established Non-Tech Companies: Managing complex projects where a broad understanding of IT is crucial.
• Risk Management and Compliance Roles in Regulated Industries: Positions like Senior IT Auditor, Compliance Manager, or Information Security Officer in financial services, healthcare, or energy sectors.

Resume Direction:

• Highlight broad transferable skills: strategic planning, risk management, problem-solving, analytical thinking, project leadership, and cross-functional collaboration, demonstrated through a wide range of IT roles.
• Quantify achievements and impact, especially in areas like GRC, security improvements, and operational efficiencies.
• Tailor the narrative to the target sector, emphasizing how IT expertise translates to business value outside the traditional tech industry. If pursuing patent law, detail technical depth and any experience related to innovation or detailed technical documentation.

Expected Benefits:

• A fulfilling career transition out of the tech industry, addressing the primary desire.
• The opportunity to leverage extensive and diverse IT experience in a new context.
• Potential for significant income increase, such as in patent law, senior management, or specialized consulting.
• New intellectual challenges and professional growth in a different industry or role type.
• Finding a pragmatic and sustainable long-term career path that aligns better with personal preferences.