Hey all, I'm looking for career advice and think you are the right group to consult.

I worked at a German university as a full time member in research and teaching for the last couple of years and finished my PhD (Dr.-Ing.) in complex systems and software engineering two years ago. Since 1.5 years I work with a fast-growing startup in a role that is best summarized by data scientist.

My direct manager recently expressed his satisfaction with my results and working style and wants to support me to develop in my career. I need to decide where I want to go.

So far I've always seen myself as a generalist, with broad experience in PCB design, software design/development, and as a team lead. I love to achieve results with others and want to stay flexible and in-charge of my decisions for the good of my company in the future. I work best in exchange with others and would enjoy to guide a team of like-minded devs/scientists. The importance of planning is dear to me but never gave me the joy a tech-savvy brainstorming session does.

Without going in exhaustive depth, I hope this was enough to give an impression. From your experience: What are the most important questions or implication I should think about to be able to make a decision? Thanks!