I can argue that success in a certain position depends on your understanding of the company's current growth stage.
These days startups are ubiquitous but most of us are unfamiliar with its growth stages. Performing a role that doesn't correspond to a particular stage leads to a lot of friction in the process and disappointment.
This article greatly explains the stages of company growth, what kind of people are necessary for each stage, and when it's worth for you to join.