[quantdev1]

Why not take a pragmatic approach?

Your options are becoming an FTE or doing some sort of contracting/consulting.

After your experience - and given your message - it sounds like you're leaning towards employment.

So:

1. Focus on the managerial route for a period of X months. Forget about positioning yourself for an IC role, since it's not your preference.*

2. Treat this as a GTM project. You are the product.

I'm willing to bet that - based on your experience - you'd have a hell of a narrative that differentiates you.

*If an IC role is offered to you while you're looking for a managerial role - seriously consider taking it - to hedge.