A code of conduct or code of ethics is a corporate governance document that explains
what standards are expected of a company and of all its employees in relation to a wide
variety of stakeholders. The code of conduct makes explicit what the company values
and communicates these values to all stakeholders, internal or external. The following
template may be adjusted to fit the unique array of values important to a company and
its stakeholders. Please note that each section contains sample language that is greatly
abbreviated from what would normally appear in a robust code of conduct and ethics.
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Table of Contents
1. Title Page ...............................................................................................................................3
2. Table of Contents ...................................................................................................................4
3. Introductory Materials ...........................................................................................................5
3.1 Letter from CEO or Owner ............................................................................................5
3.2 Introduction and Purpose of Code ..................................................................................5
3.3 Guiding Principles ..........................................................................................................6
3.4 Organization Basics .......................................................................................................6
3.5 History or Background of Code Development ...............................................................6
4. Relationships with the Company and Each Other .................................................................7
4.1 Respecting the individual and Diversity ........................................................................7
4.2 Avoiding conflicts of interest .........................................................................................7
4.3 Creating a Positive Work Environment..........................................................................7
4.4 Respecting Each Other’s Privacy ...................................................................................8
4.5 Protecting Company Information and Property .............................................................8
4.6 Accuracy in Accounting and Reporting .........................................................................8
5. Relationships with Customers................................................................................................8
5.1 Obeying all Laws and Regulations .................................................................................8
5.2 Focusing on Quality .......................................................................................................9
5.3 Accurate Billing .............................................................................................................9
6. Relationships with the Community........................................................................................9
6.1 Obeying Local Laws ......................................................................................................9
6.2 No Improper Political Contributions ..............................................................................9
7. Relationship to the Environment .........................................................................................10
8. Company Compliance Program ...........................................................................................10
8.1 Responsible Officer and Staff ......................................................................................10
8.2 Communications ...........................................................................................................10
8.3 Seeking Advice or Reporting Misconduct ...................................................................10
8.4 Investigations................................................................................................................10
8.5 Dispute-Resolution Process ..........................................................................................10
8.6 Reporting on Compliance Data ....................................................................................10
8.7 Process for Evaluating and Changing the Program ......................................................10
9. Related Policies and Procedures ..........................................................................................11
9.1 Business Ethics Office