crossing the jungle to get to a better spot. Sounds like the person is pretty skilled. It's likely there is a company that could use those same skills.

We also live in a time of crazy opportunities. You can get skills in so many ways, mid career, now if you are willing to work hard at it. Maybe he is good enough to strike out on his own.

IF we choose to be a dog going to get our bowl of kibbles, we at least want to go be treated kindly. If not, we need to run away and find another master. Or, be a wolf, go get your own food.

I get grass is greener. But man, it don't need to overthink a kaka job if we have a chance to get better work or even better, become independent.