Companies do not willing hire managers, especially executive level. There is always a reason. For instance, they were hired from a competitor and had information, could bring over employees, etc. Other times it is personal relationships. Notice I say relationship not friendship. Many companies are doing unethical or illegal things and are not going to hire someone they think is a boy scout narc into their ranks. Many are doing criminal businesses on the side. You think I am joking or exaggerating, but this is sadly the reality. It's nice to pretend stuff doesn't go on but it does. The good thing is that you can start your own business, be the boss, and run an ethical ship.