Preface or Introduction
(signed by the Chairman or Chief Executive
Officer or both) Start with a sentence on the purpose of the Statement - mention
the values that are important to the top management in the conduct of the business
such as integrity, responsibility and reputation. Describe the leadership commitment
in maintaining high standards both within the organisation and in its dealings
with others. Set out the role of the company in the community and end with
a personal endorsement of the code and the expectation that the standard set out
in it will be maintained by all involved in the organisation. Key areas
to include - A. The Purpose and Values of the Business
The
service, which is being provided - a group of products, or set or services - financial
objectives and the business' role in society as the company sees it. B.
Employees
How the business values employees. the company's policies
on: working conditions, recruitment, development and training,
rewards, health, safety & security, equal opportunities,
diversity, retirement, redundancy, discrimination and harassment.
Use of company assets by employees.
C. Customer Relations
The importance of customer satisfaction and good faith in all agreements, quality,
fair pricing and after-sales service. D. Shareholders or other providers
of money
The protection of investment made in the company and proper 'return'
on money lent. A commitment to accurate and timely communication on achievements
and prospects. E. Suppliers
Prompt settling of bills. Co-operation
to achieve quality and efficiency. No bribery or excess hospitality accepted or
given. F. Society or the wider community
Compliance with the spirit of laws as well as the letter.
The company's obligations to protect and preserve the environment.
The involvement of the company and its staff in local affairs.
The corporate policy on sponsorship as well as giving to education
and charitable appeals.
G. Implementation
The process by which the code is issued and used. Means to
obtain advice. Awareness raising examples (Q & As) Training
programmes for all staff.
H Assurance, reporting and reviews
Suggest ways of knowing if the code is effective. Report to
the board or board committee at least annually. Review procedures
for updating the code.
Simon Webley 2001(updated 2007)
The IBE publication
'Developing a Code of Business Ethics' offers further guidance
. The IBE publication Living
Up to Our Values: developing ethical assurance can be
of assistance for Section H
You
may also find our training course 'Developing
& Implementing a Code of Business Ethics' helpful. Back
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