While it’s not true of everyone in very senior academic roles, a large number of people in them have a parent or other relative who was also senior/well known who opened doors for them (and closed them for you).
It doesn’t mean they aren’t bright or don’t necessarily deserve their role, but they will have had all manner of lucky breaks you won’t have had. So it’s not your lack of ability or drive that’s blocking your progress. It’s a lack of relatives making a path for you.
In addition many senior academics are financially secure with a good support network. Stable housing (sometimes more than one home). These are also hidden benefits that make work much easier. You can thrive and progress if you’re not worried about the bills.
For transparency I should say my dad worked in a college, so that gave me benefits too. For example college spaces are less intimidating if you’ve played in them as a child. It’s something i do a lot with school pupils now - knowing unis should be a space for everyone.
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