Cult-ish? Idk what to do

For privacy I am going to keep things generalized but, I work in a somewhat “skilled service” industry. We often have complex problems, changing policies, and lack of support resources. I’ve basically had to claw my way to the level of skill and experience I now have making me a fixture of the location as well as someone people will wait hours (or days) to meet with over my peers.

I was told about a promotion plan that by meeting my goals for a few months I would receive a promotion, I ended the year at over double my metric for the primary target. No promotion- told to look for internal postings All low level management positions have been axed I had applied and interviewed for one ouch to hear they axe the position post interview. A manager whom spends more time focused on inappropriate relations with patrons than supporting staff (last staff to bring this up did not go over well) and continually has to ask how to complete our job as they are one of the few managers whom rarely help us in our actual job functions

I feel underpaid and undervalued when I bring up these concerns I get reminded of the things I got others didn’t (ex. I know you want a raise bc this new hire you are training makes more than you but we’re also hired on at more than people who worked here prior or you may not have a new title but you are getting the development) Feels like text book way to shift away from just paying more or promoting. I’m constantly told the executive team talks highly of me ect, but again all words. We talk all about doing good in our community and it all feels like a front upper management put on to trick all us peasants to drink the damn Koolaid. I’ve thought about just trucking away and continuing my education in my field, But unsure if I should look elsewhere while also still perusing my education . But I’m terrified to do so with today’s economic state o can’t afford to lose money.

I want them to develop me, teach me, utilize all I’ve shown them I can do, and they clearly see. I feel bored and forgotten like I did my job too well and they will never let me grow.