echelon
noun [ C, often plural ]
WORKPLACE uk/ˈeʃəlɒn/ usa rank or position within an organization, company, or profession:
in the upper/top/higher echelons of sth Politicians are often hired by private equity for the connections and skills gained while working in the upper echelons of government.
at the upper/top echelon The job allows you a glimpse into day-to-day goings-on at the company's top echelon.
Most believe it is this juggling act that keeps women in the lower echelons of the legal profession.