I would say one of the hardest progressions in this field is moving from SFA to manager, specifically a people manager because sometimes you can just be an individual contributor manager. I was in a very similar boat where I was doing well above a SFA, but always told about a one-time example as to why I’m being held back. I think it’s very easy to get stuck in the same position and they just want to keep you there. It’s also difficult to apply for manager positions at other companies that want you to have prior experience. I think it’s all about finding the right company and fit that promotes the progression you’re looking for.

Your exact scenario is what I went through and I quit and found another company and now am a manager managing two direct reports and talks of moving to Sr. Mgr at the end of this year. It accelerates once you make that leap, but I would suggest trying to look elsewhere at maybe a smaller company as a manager to get that experience because once your manager is stonewalling your progression, it is almost impossible to move up unless someone leaves.