I can assure it can and does happen although in many cases, including mine, it is far more about being lucky and in the right place at the right time rather than any tactical masterstroke.
Any semi-competent professional who found themselves in the same role as I did a decade ago earning 50k would have achieved the same.
I realise that in years to come the type of role I do may well get downgraded because the level of experience others have and therefore the competition will inevitably increase.
There are industries where huge changes, primarily technology driven, have created massive new opportunities that just weren’t possible before. Add in layers of complex and evolving global legislation and regulation and you soon find yourself in the box seat if you were involved at the outset.
As part of my role I’m asked by global regulators and governments to assist them with the creation of new regulatory frameworks as I’m seen as a global industry expert in my field. I’m happy to do this as being able to in some small way influence new legislation and regulatory codes helps protect the business I work for.
My best career advice to anyone is to understand that only a tiny number of people are genuinely gifted to such an extent that they are head and shoulders above normal people in terms of ability. I think I’ve met maybe 2 or 3 in my entire career. Everyone else is broadly on a par and given the right opportunities could succeed in higher paid roles were they minded to do so.
Keep pushing at doors and one day the right one will open. Persistence pays.