"rise to the top"? I think you mean protecting his position at the top from "executives". Some of who may have little skill to offer the company (as someone a

"rise to the top"? I think you mean protecting his position at the top from "executives". Some of who may have little skill to offer the company (as someone above said, age is a factor) but are who are quite adept at maneuvering their way into higher salaries and greater powers of decision-making.