Haha, by your definition of upper echelons, even a SAFOS is not
considered one because there's no way he can get to that payscale
by 26 (that is probably around a scheme C major-2 pay). Major-2 by
26? Maybe our PM ba.
And considering that our SAFOSes are one of the best paid
scholars around, I will like to see how one can get to that without
being an entrepreneur or being born with a silver spoon.
Seems like our definitions of "upper echelons" differ. There's
no point arguing then.
Come to think of it, intellectual hell hath no stupidity like
you. So heck, whatever you say, you are right.
Since you received education from an "elite overseas
university", so be it.
Gloat about it. I don't care. I will even grovel to you online.
I am tired of arguing with you. You will say I ran out of things to
say. Whatever. 
It does not cost me anything to declare victory for you.
YOU WIN. 