Noun for person that you "suck up" to

I am looking for a general term for a person that people "suck up" to or ask favors of often so that they can advance themselves. Essentially, I am looking for a term that would describe a person in power who can give people opportunities, and is also broad enough to encompass multiple areas (academic, government, workforce, etc.).

From the point of view of the sycophant, who would use a complimentary term, and perhaps from the point of view of others, who might not be so inclined, the person flattered is someone they hope to make their

benefactor
A person who supports or helps a person....

(Collins)

Although now tinged with archaism,

patron
1. One that supports, protects, or champions someone....

(American Heritage)

might suit your purposes better than 'benefactor'.