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In a recent visit to the new Do it Best headquarters at the Electric Works campus in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb joined the Do it Best team for a tour of the facility and presented Do it Best president and CEO Dan Starr with the Sagamore of the Wabash award—bestowed to exemplary Hoosiers in recognition of distinguished statewide service.
“Indiana’s own Dan Starr’s leadership over the years has been exemplary. As the leader at Do it Best, Indiana’s largest privately held company, Dan’s contributions have had immense positive impacts on his community and our state,” says Gov. Holcomb. “As a driver of relentless innovation and company culture, he’s set a standard for facing difficult challenges head-on, never losing sight of the customer. For all of his accomplishments and model servant leadership, I’m proud to recognize Dan today before his peers with the Sagamore of the Wabash award.”
Starr has held several leadership roles within the greater Fort Wayne community, participating on civic, charitable and business boards.
“Dan embodies the essence of servant leadership,” says Do it Best board chairman Joe Taylor. “He understands that true leadership isn’t about being in charge, but about taking care of those in your charge. Dan has continuously put the success and growth of our members, vendors and employees at the forefront of his decision-making, and we are a better, stronger company because of it.”
“I’m honored and humbled to receive the Sagamore of the Wabash award,” says Starr. “I’ve always believed that true leadership is about serving others—it’s a philosophy that guides us at Do it Best, and I’m fortunate to work with a team that shares this commitment. This award is a testament to the strength of our company and the incredible growth and community we’ve built together.”
Starr has served as president and CEO of Do it Best since January 2016. He joined Do it Best in 2005 as director of human resources and general counsel, was promoted to vice president of human resources in July 2006 and was named executive vice president and chief operating officer in June 2012.
