[techiferous]

> those with actual power

The power that comes with a job title or position is actually quite limited. And it also calls into question as what exactly is meant by power. Personal power (getting your way?) or creative power (putting forth your energy for the benefit of the organization). I find that it's actually not too hard to have a great deal of creative power, regardless of personal power -- by listening and responding well to the needs of others and by effectively solving problems.

[fergie]

It is ever possible to have real power as an (non-executive non-shareholding) employee of an organisation?

[techiferous]

Power implies the ability to cause change. When you say "real" power I think you might have some specific kind of change in mind. What kind of organizational influence are you considering "real" power?

[imtringued]

Why not? The only "problem" is that everyone who actually goes down that path becomes a manager or executive given enough time.