be in the catbird seat

be (sitting) in the catbird seat

To be in a powerful position. The phrase likely refers to the catbird's preference for high tree branches (which keep predators at bay). As the CEO's assistant, you are definitely sitting in the catbird seat. The retirement of the company's president left its vice president suddenly in the catbird seat.
See also: catbird, seat
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

be in the ˈcatbird seat

(American English) have an advantage over other people or be in control of a situation: After his recent success, the president is sitting in the catbird seat. With prices falling dramatically, buyers seem to be in the catbird seat.
See also: catbird, seat
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • be (sitting) in the catbird seat
  • be sitting in the catbird seat
  • catbird
  • catbird seat
  • the catbird seat
  • in the catbird seat
  • (sitting) in the catbird seat
  • catbird seat, (sitting) in the
  • get (one's) ear
  • deserting/leaving a sinking ship
References in periodicals archive
"Therapists used to be in the catbird seat, and now they're being eaten," adds Monroe.
Rewriting the rules
When the market really opens up, these guys will be in the catbird seat."
Getting in on the ground floor