Sort of. I've worked at startups the last 10 years. I've gone from IC to "executive" three times now. Twice I decided to just join a company as an IC after leav

Sort of. I've worked at startups the last 10 years. I've gone from IC to "executive" three times now. Twice I decided to just join a company as an IC after leaving the last as a manager to avoid the stress/hassle and then ended up leading things. You get more insight, respect and influence on your compensation as a manager. Comp is also worse as an IC unless you get lucky or have a personal connection to the leadership.