I was mostly a B grader until I went HQ. HQ is a good place to network and learn but it will also be a place where you will realise that B and As are difficult to get because almost everyone is a top performer there. Also, as SEO1, you are competing with senior specialists and it’s really tough. HOD in HQ is also just a senior officer. You no longer have any management role unless you are roped in to be an Assistant Director at the very least. However, these positions are by invitation only and you can’t find them in open posting.

If you want to continue to get good grades, stay in school. Can consider changing schools and portfolio. If you want exposure and network, go HQ. However, be prepared to get C/C+.