[noam_compsci]

IMO your first mistake was not having an out when the director got fired. As nostrademons3 says, you should have been networking and finding your “next gig” within the company if you want to stay to vest.

Moving forward, be the master of your own destiny. Network, find the good teams with good leadership and good trajectory within the company. Get interested in their work. See how you can collaborate. Plant the seeds.