[cyberpanther]

My theory is first while it is not rare, I think a majority of developers want to stay developers and not really take on that type of role. Just like Captain Kirk, we've rather be commanding a starship than be an admiral. However, I also think it is rare to find an opportunity like you state. Normally a person would grow into this role in a company. I've never seen some one looking for a VP with zero experience. So the people who would like that position probably aren't looking for it. I would love a role like you mention but never been offered anything like that. So part of your problem is just a search issue. The people are out there but you need to find out how to look for them.