I am on a management track. I have 10+ years of experience as a prior team lead and manager and have been working towards that goal at this company since I joined. Earlier this year, I was told a manager was being brought in at the next level above me - a role that I was working towards. That I know of, the position wasn't posted, and I don't believe my other, eligible colleagues were given a chance to apply either. I was completely blindsided. Adding insult to injury, weeks before this announcement I received a glowing performance review (my second since joining) and had been recognized by senior leadership for my work and contributions. About three weeks ago, I learned that another colleague (who was at my same level, and who joined less than a year ago) has been promoted. Once again, even though we were told that they "saw the opportunity and applied for it," the role had not been posted for other eligible colleagues to apply. Now there is a third opening at the next level. When I asked about applying, I was told leadership has very specific qualifications they're looking for, and that they're looking outside of our current eligible folks. Since there is no place to move up on my current team, I asked what other opportunities were available where I would have a clearer path to promotion. I have accepted a lateral move as a result -- and I have also been told that there is no immediate budget for growing that team, and while the path to promotion is clearer, there are no guarantees. While I am happy with the new team I'm joining, I cannot help but wonder if my age, race, or gender has anything to do with why I am being passed over. I'm at a point in my life and career where I don't give much stock over what people think, but other more junior colleagues and folks I collaborate with regularly are wondering (aloud) why I'm not at least being given an opportunity to apply. I am also wondering if what is happening is legal. Because we are a partially remote company, I don't know what the laws are about posting positions "internally" before posting to the public, but something about this does not feel right. I would love some HR advice on whether (or how) I should proceed, as I am concerned I will not be given a fair shot and will be passed up again. Thank you.