> If you're trying to improve a process just for the recognition, then you're by definition not subject to it

Simple: when hired as a developer, I expect being compensated in one way or the other for work that goes beyond scope - especially when it is like in most private companies where you need some form of achievements to show to get a raise or a promotion. And do not forget: when you improve processes, usually your workload will be increased as a result, so in the worst case you'll end up with your manager getting the raise for your suggestion and double the workload as "thanks".

This falls squarely into stepping out of the developer role and taking on the role of a manager though. It's really not about the people who don't want to think about those things.