Kudo's to both, for giving this consideration. I suspect a lot of people will be evaluating their career paths over the next little while.
I'll give my perspective, based primarily on feedback from industry experience with consultants. Primarily good, by the way, the old adage of things can be done well, cheap, or fast, but only two, never three. A good, qualified consultant can certainly be an asset.
People will generally pay for verified competency. Having appropriate credentials to back up your claims is essential - if you want to implement SQF systems - get the official training to show competency, and stay up to date. Same for category experience - make sure your resume and industry experience claims are in line. This is the type of substantive evidence that allows you to stand apart from the crowd.
Finally, get your references, people who are willing and able to stand behind your experience and capabilities.
That, and being good at sales and marketing. From discussions I have had, you would spend upwards to 40% of your time seeking new business, so going in with a well developed network and some personal brand recognition would be an asset.