About to start divorce and looking for a better job - what to do?

[CQCnamechange]

I’ve posted here before under various names and I’m ashamed to say I’ve not started the divorce process yet....
Short story - he has his own business and pays himself min wage but dividends to the tune of £45k. I’m in £26k as I took a lower paid job to look after the kids as his job takes him abroad.
He wants 50/50 of kids but I have done the majority (all) the half term and holiday childcare.
It looks like I have the opportunity for a better job £50k plus but for one year only. Current job is flexible and secure.
I know he’s hiding money from his business and making it look less profitable.
Do I divorce now on my current salary in the hope I get awarded more capital as I took a step down in my career? Or will it make no difference what I get if I’m on a higher salary? I just want the security for me and the kids.

He is keeping money what he calls ‘his sacings’ To himself while I’m putting all my money into the upkeep of the house. He’s spending money on holidays with the boys and new clothes while we don’t have money in the joint account to replace a broken fridge or security alarm (was broken after attempted break in). I know he’s financially abusing me.

it sounds very unfair. On the basis he may pretend to have a very low income after divorce I would probably go for the full time job but also try to get more than 50% of your joint assets after debts come off or the house until the youngest child is 18 if you both can't afford a clean break (if you own a house)

Yes we own a house.
What do you mean if we Cannit afford a clean break? X

Yes it’s very unfair and I was in a similar position and ended up with a pretty shit settlement - BUT the new job is not just about the balance of power in the divorce - it’s about the rest of your life and your career progression and how you will feel a couple of years down the line when you’ve carved out a wonderful new life for yourself with the freedom security and independence that comes from earning your own money and growing your career. It’s your choice of course but don’t just look at this in the context of the divorce settlement- take the long view.

What is the alternative to a clean break?

A clean break would be an immediate and final settlement deal, which is more achievable where a couple have enough liquid assets to split to fund two households going forwards. This is what we did - but it is not always feasible for various reasons. You really need to take legal advice if you haven’t already.