How long to wait for promotion after it's been agreed?

[BlueRaspberry7]

Had a very positive 6-month review end of June (held late at 9 months).

Line manager said I've mastered all elements of the role and they were putting me forward to senior management for a promotion and pay rise. Senior management agreed to this. They also mentioned it would have to be done sensitively as my progression has been quicker than someone in the equivalent role.

Since my review the company lost a client. Two members of staff have also since left and have not been replaced.

Management tell me this week that others on team are also waiting for their promotions + rises - mine is a priority but all are on hold for now until we win some new clients.

This was a little disappointing as work's going really well on all my clients but I understand things are tricky with the client loss. What do others think - does it seem fair enough and to be expected to wait if the business has taken a hit?

From experience (was told last July everyone had to wait for January for promotion and rises, then in September, 3 others were promoted anyway), it does create some tension when the process is chaotic and management say one thing and then do another. I asked for and got backpay on my rise to when the others were promoted as it was unfair.

They should have one promotion process, and at a certain time of year everyone to be considered for promotion should be put forward, and then that's it until the next time.

And re the loss of clients- have also been in that situation where all promotions and rises were held back until there was new funds. I wasn't one of those involved but I believe they ended up giving the new job titles out, and promising the rise and back pay on the rise when there was money available.

This was a very small company though, I wouldn't expect that from a large one. Everyone understood the difficulties.