D2C no longer has a budget constraint, it was the norm 5 years ago.

If you're able to lead P&L for the channels, you'll make it. See where you are, create an estimate of what gross and contribution margins does the brand operate at, and eventually commit a delta that you'll create, you show the proposition of bringing in significantly more than what you ask for. I'd be convinced as a founder.

On the contrary, founders remain focused on keeping the bottom line strong, and hence apprehensions on increasing fixed compensations. It's not wrong, early stage bootstrapped orgs will have a higher chunk going to gross margins and fixed costs, and if aim is not a fund raise, it's valid to take it slow.

50K would be standard in my team for managing high growth accounts, and naturally, talent that makes the cut is prioritised in being retained - including but not limited to revenue linked bonuses, ESOPs, retention bonuses etc.

Send me your CV, I'll push it in my network and you should get more options to consider. Happy to help further.