Me thinks that all former EK managers were ex BA.
They know very well that as a pilot, it is not that easy to change from one airline to another.
The fact that only a few leave EK is no reference but an indication of how difficult it is to manage your career, definitely if you are bonded and have given up you capt position.
On top of that they will tell you what you want to hear but act otherwise, that is how humans are. Just avoiding the direct conflict and using the power they have allows them to do just that.
Must be very frustrating.
On the other hand you should be happy to work for a company that will not go bust in the short term.