Surely there’s a German word for this - framing a weakness as if it contributed to the success.

I’ve seen it in so many talks, especially from people working in big tech. Something is a success in spite of some aspect of it, and those responsible for that aspect go on speaking tours about their journey and what we mere mortals can learn from them.

Try "Lobhudelei"

Well, not German but there is the tale of the fox who lost its tail and framed it as a good thing