One thing that is currently done is that a leader is penalized seniority for not getting promoted. This means that a general is penalized for not being promoted even if he is nowhere near the senior or in a position where it would not be prudent operationally (I find switching division commanders in the middle of critical operations problematic).
Has an alternative been considered?
I was thinking that adding a number to the "starting" seniority might be better as it has the some effect. That would mean leaders could continue to make progress towards promotion and senoirity without having the "general in reserve" effect.