THE AWARD
EXEMPLYFYING OUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP IN ADVANCING SOCIAL IMPACT INITIATIVES
IAOP is proud to announce the establishment of the Dan Lang Award for Purpose-Driven Leadership. This prestigious accolade will be awarded annually to an individual who exemplifies exceptional leadership in purpose-driven initiatives in outsourcing and global sourcing. The inaugural recipient, already selected by IAOP, will be honored at the awards luncheon during OWS25 in Chicago.
This award was established to celebrate individuals who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to social responsibility, innovation, and leadership in driving positive change. IAOP recognizes that purpose-driven leadership is essential for shaping the future of business and society. This award is envisioned to become an annual recognition, celebrating influential leaders who continue to push the boundaries of social impact and sustainability.
Dan Lang, a respected leader at Sutherland, was a staunch advocate for social impact and played a pivotal role in advancing IAOP's mission through his work with the IAOP Center for Social Impact and numerous collaborative initiatives. His leadership helped forge a deep partnership between Sutherland and IAOP, setting a benchmark for social responsibility in the industry.
Debi Hamill, CEO of IAOP, expressed her admiration, stating, “Dan Lang was more than just a colleague in our industry; he was a visionary and a dear friend whose commitment to making a difference was truly inspiring. This award is not only a tribute to his incredible legacy but also a beacon for future leaders who share his passion for purpose-driven leadership. We aim to honor those who continue to push boundaries and drive significant social change in our industry.”
Starting next year, the Dan Lang Award for Purpose-Driven Leadership will open nominations to IAOP members and the broader industry community. This change aims to engage our global community in recognizing individuals who are making a profound impact through ethical leadership, community engagement, and sustainable business practices.
The winner will be announced during a special ceremony at OWS25, providing a platform to celebrate the transformative power of outsourcing and the people who elevate it to a force for good.
Eligibility Requirements
Leadership Role: The recipient must have held a leadership role (e.g., CEO, director, manager, or equivalent) in an organization or initiative that drives social impact.
Demonstrated Commitment: The recipient must have a proven track record of purpose-driven leadership and commitment to social impact over at least three years.
Scope of Impact: The recipient’s efforts must have positively influenced either:
- Local, regional, or global communities
- Policies, practices, or industries in ways that promote social good
Selection Criteria
Vision & Innovation: Demonstrated ability to innovate and create solutions to complex social challenges. Developed strategies or programs that go beyond traditional approaches to create measurable, sustainable change.
Impact & Outcomes: Clear evidence of tangible social impact through initiatives led or championed by the individual (e.g., job creation, community empowerment, education). Success stories or metrics that showcase results, such as improved livelihoods, increased access to resources, or enhanced inclusivity.
Advocacy & Influence: Advocacy efforts that amplify the importance of social responsibility within the individual’s industry or community. Proven ability to inspire others to adopt and expand purpose-driven initiatives.
Application Process
Interested candidates or nominators can submit their applications through IAOP’s official award portal. The submission must include:
Narrative
A detailed narrative of the nominee’s achievements and contributions to social impact.
Evidence
Evidence of impact, such as metrics, testimonials, case studies, or media coverage.
Supporting Documents
Supporting documents highlighting the nominee’s leadership and advocacy efforts.
Selection Committee
The award recipient will be selected by a distinguished committee comprising IAOP leadership and industry experts with a strong background in social impact. Sutherland representatives may also participate in the selection process at their discretion. The selection process will be based on the outlined criteria, ensuring a fair and thorough evaluation of all candidates. This award not only commemorates Dan Lang’s legacy but also reinforces IAOP’s commitment to recognizing and fostering purpose-driven leadership for a better world.