This is the 7217th most frequent Japanese word.
上方
"上方" (かみがた or うえかた) means "upper region" or "Kansai area" (specifically around Kyoto and Osaka).
In this sentence, '上方' refers to the physical direction above or upwards, modifying the location of the window.
上方にある窓から光が差し込んでいる。
Light is streaming in from a window situated above.
Here, '上方' symbolizes improvement or a move in a positive direction in terms of his evaluation.
彼は会社での評価が上方に移った。
His assessment in the company has shifted upwards.
In this case, '上方' describes the upward direction associated with climbing stairs.