rise through the ranks

Related to rise through the ranks: broke ranks

rise through the ranks

To reach a prominent position after serving in subordinate ones. The employees trust Stu as their manager because they know that he rose through the ranks from the same entry-level position that they have now. The only way you'll rise through the ranks here is by putting in enough time and hard work.
See also: rank, rise, through
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

rise through the ranks

Also, rise from the ranks; come up through the ranks. Work one's way to the top, as in He's risen through the ranks, starting as a copyboy and ending up as senior editor. Originally this term was used for an officer who had worked his way up from the rank of private, a rare feat. It was being applied to nonmilitary advances by the mid-1800s. Also see come up, def. 4.
See also: rank, rise, through
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.

rise through (or from) the ranks

1 (of a private or a non-commissioned officer) receive a commission. 2 advance from a lowly position in an organization by your own efforts.
See also: rank, rise, through
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary

come up/rise through the ˈranks

after starting your career at the bottom or low down in an organization, finally reach a high position in it: The new managing director has come up through the ranks, which is quite unusual these days.
In the military, the ranks refers to the position of ordinary soldiers rather than officers. Some may become officers if they have the right qualities.
See also: come, rank, rise, through, up
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • rise from the ranks
  • come up through the ranks
  • come up/rise through the ranks
  • every/a monkey knows what tree to climb
  • draft up
  • flaky
  • indicate
  • indicate (something) to (someone)
  • indicate to
  • earn (one's) wings