10 YOE Graphic Designer on a 15-month parental leave: Preparing for a leap into Design Management, UX/UI, or Design Ops?

Hi everyone, I’ve been a graphic designer for 10 years and am currently on parental leave with 15 months remaining . I’m using this period to reflect on my future and get fully ready to pivot or step up when I return to the workforce. With AI reshaping traditional execution, I want to move away from low-level production and aim for higher income, strategic leadership, or a more future-proof direction. Since I have dedicated time to learn and build new credentials before returning, I’d love advice on how to spend these next 15 months wisely. I’d love input from: Intermediate to Senior designers / Creative Directors who moved into management. Ex-graphic designers who pivoted into UX/UI, Product Design, or Design Ops / Project Management. Here is what I’m debating for my learning plan: Management / Creative Direction: Is aiming for Design Lead / Art Director still the safest path? Which self-study skills or non-academic courses (e.g., leadership, business strategy, cross-team operations) carry real weight? UX/UI / Product Design: Given a 10-year background in visual design, is a 10–12 month self-paced UX commitment (building 2 solid case studies) enough to pivot into Mid/Senior Product Design roles without being treated like a fresh bootcamp grad? Project Management / Design Ops: Since I’ve managed project deadlines, assets, and client workflows for a decade, would formally studying project management (e.g., CAPM, PMP, or Agile/Scrum certifications) bridge the gap to land a Design Operations or Creative PM role? Certifications Value: Should I avoid technical certs (like Adobe) entirely at the 10-year mark and focus 100% on management, strategy, or UI/UX portfolios? If you had 10 years of design experience and 15 months of dedicated time to up-skill, how would you map out your study plan to maximize income and job security? Thanks for sharing your experience!