What is the value of having a Code of Conduct? In its early days, a Code of Conduct tended to be lawyer-written and lawyer-driven to wave in a regulator’s face during an enforcement action as proof of ethical overall behavior. Is such a legalistic code effective? Is a Code of Conduct more than simply your company’s internal law? What should be the goal of the creation of your company’s Code of Conduct?
How important is the Code of Conduct? Consider the 2016 SEC enforcement action involving United Airlines, Inc., which turned on a violation of the company’s Code of Conduct. The breach of the Code of Conduct was determined to be an FCPA internal control violation. It involved a clear quid pro quo benefit paid out by United to David Samson, the former Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, the public government entity that has authority over, among other things, United’s operations at the company’s huge east coast hub in Newark, NJ.
Three key takeaways:
1. A Code of Conduct is a foundational document in any compliance regime.
2. The substance of your Code of Conduct should be tailored to the company’s culture, to its industry, and to its corporate identity.
3. “Document, Document, and Document” your training and communication efforts regarding your Code of Conduct.
