Is applying for a management position (such as company manager, project manager, department head, or office manager) in a public or private company considered asking for and desiring authority, which is prohibited in Islamic law?

Seeking leadership or governorship is not inherently reprehensible. If one knows himself to possess strength, trustworthiness, and competence, it is permissible for him to seek it, as Prophet Yusuf (peace be upon him) did: "Appoint me over the treasuries of the land. Indeed, I am a trustworthy guardian, all-knowing." This is a fundamental principle for the permissibility of seeking governorship for one who is confident in his ability to fulfill its rights. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) approved of Uthman ibn Abi al-'As's request to lead his people. As for the hadiths that prohibit seeking leadership, the prohibition therein is interpreted as applying to leadership that involves power and arrogance, or to one who seeks it without deserving it. However, for one who sees himself as deserving and competent, his request serves as a notification to the ruler.