I'm proud of anyone who stands up to those who try to push them down. I'm proud of anyone who refuses to go along just because those around them does. These people are my heroes. There's no way I'm raising myself above my heroes.
Would you say it to your boss or rather hear it from your boss? That would be an indication if you pose yourself above someone by saying it. In German, we hardly say that in a business relationship.
It depends on the circumstance. It might be the perfect expression in some situations. In the 'wrong' situation in could come across as extremely presumptuous and condescending.