That's true. But, if the medium is low to mid 40's (UI) and he starts them at mid 30's, a few raises in the first year would be a quick boost to the 'going rate

That's true. But, if the medium is low to mid 40's (UI) and he starts them at mid 30's, a few raises in the first year would be a quick boost to the 'going rate'. I wouldn't stick around either without a yearly or even bi-yearly raise!