Give me a career kick up the bum

[Uncooperativefingers]

A job has been advertised on the job board at work, for my manager's job. (Although we actually haven't been told they are leaving yet). It's for the first level of management, so a team leader type role.

I have been in my role at the company for 15 months (moved here as no progression in old role, and this role was a sideways move for me) and have made it clear that I am interested in career progression. I am currently just starting a secondment into a management role for another (similar team) as 6 months maternity cover.

Apart from management experience (which I am starting to get now), I meet all the job description requirements.

So why am I sat here wondering if if would be seen badly/premature to apply for this job? Obviously, ideally it would be after my secondment ends, but the job won't exist then!

Please MN, give me a kick up the backside to apply, (or point put very good reasons not too if you can see any)

Do it!! If this was your friend, what would you tell them?

I have a lot going on at the minute, getting to grips with new seconded role, 2 professional exams within the next month, getting married in a month's time (and then 3 weeks away for honeymoon) and a major project funding interview in 2 weeks.

A job application feels like an extra I could do without. But I think I'll come back to the office in October disappointed if I don't throw my hat in the ring. So I think I need to suck it up don't I?

That is a good point... I would absolutely tell them to get on with it and to channel the confidence of a mediocre white man! 😂