Recently, I was asked to attend a board meeting to help the client understand our commitment to business integrity. The client knew we had been recognized as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies again this year by the Ethisphere Institute, and wanted to better understand our legal and ethical compliance program.
Our operators wanted me to attend as the “face” of ethics and compliance. Right away, I noticed there seemed to be a good relationship—upfront and forthright—based on exemplary service and trust—a tangible example of three important markers – service, spirit and ethical standards.
I’m glad I had the opportunity to attend this board meeting because it reminded me that the true “face” of ethics and compliance is every one of us. The manager at an account; the cashier at an account — living our values and ethical principles every day are what makes us an ethical company. Living our values and principles every day are what drive our mission and make us ethical people, which in turn make up an ethical company.
I am interested in your comments. Please share with me experiences of how you live your values and ethical principles. Feel free to leave a comment and share your stories—I’m sure we’ll all learn from your stories. And remember – report any concerns through proper reporting mechanisms— not through blogs, or other external facing public forums.
Bonnie Green is a vice president and assistant general counsel for Sodexo