IAG’s Ramana James was named “shared value trailblazer” at the Shared Value Awards in Sydney last week.

The shared value concept, first outlined by Harvard experts Michael Porter and Mark Kramer in 2011, aims to connect company success with social progress.

Mr James drives IAG's shared value team, and the judging panel found he has “engaged extensively” across the company and its operating markets.

“Ramana uses his passion and knowledge to help publicise the commercial and community benefits [of shared value], and mentors people from a diverse range of organisations that are beginning their shared value journey and are seeking guidance for the practical implementation of this new business strategy,” the panel said.